Snippets 2

I'm baffled by how quickly the time goes. Could it really be that my last post was almost 2 weeks ago? I have to name this post "Snippets 2" because again there is really no common thread to what I am about to write. This post will mostly comprise all the little itsy things that have made my time here - well, interesting!

Thailand's King
The King and Queen are extremely popular and well-liked here in Thailand. Their pictures adorn many a roadway, along with homes and public establishments. Before watching a movie we stand up in respect to the King as his song is played and this anthem is heard most mornings here in our village (much to my chagrin since the decibel level is generally really high). The students (including the Burmese students) are always curious/concerned about the King's welfare and speak about him and what he has done with a lot of respect. From what I can tell, he is deserving of this respect. Obviously I am not personally acquainted with him!, but from the numerous projects he has helped start, and his expertise in many areas including science, sports, music, languages, (and then some) he appears to be a true leader.

This year he turned 80, so on December 5th there were elaborate festivities all over Thailand. The night before his birthday he gave a speech that we watched on TV here at school. It was the first time I had seen the King speak and it was interesting finally seeing him in action. One of our students translated the speech, making it possible to know why the audience was laughing, and even more importantly, to get an idea of what the King is like. His speech was not very political in that he touched on many issues but wasn't trying to really push an agenda. He shared his opinions on things from global warming, to dams being built, sufficiency economies, oil, and his health. He joked a bit about his wardrobe (which has been very colorful lately with suits in every hue of the rainbow) and his age. Watching the audience was about as interesting as watching the King. For most of the time they looked bored (I'm not sure that they really were, I think it's just a common way to look here!), but then they would laugh at his jokes. I'm not always sure what some expressions mean.

Seeing the King and the way my Thai students took such an interest in what he said made me feel like I understand a little more how the royal family holds Thailand together. It also made me see the value of a good king. I get the impression he has more of a chance to remain true to his opinions because he doesn't have to worry about opponents and elections. In Thailand, both the King and Queen's opinions are highly valued by the people.
This was just one small step towards understanding this country I moved to!

Thai Class
The second, bigger, step taken recently was the advent of Thai class. We've had 5 lessons so far (two 2 hour classes each week) and I think I am finally starting to get a little of how Thai works. In our class there has been a big focus on learning the alphabet (all 44 consonants and 32 vowels) and then learning how to read and write. Not all of the consonants and vowels are in use, and just a few consonants are used frequently, so learning is a little easier than I originally thought. This week I was starting to understand how to pronounce the different words I was reading and I understood the teacher once when he spoke in Thai! Hey - I'd call that a break through. : ) I'm really enjoying the class and am hoping that I will know Thai enough to get around by the end of our class.

Visitors Welcome
Two Fridays ago I got a visitor here at the school! Thanks Ian! Ian has been my one and only visitor (this will change in two weeks when Ben gets here!!!) and it was so great to get to show him around. I was kind of surprised what a show-off mood I was in. Our school is very modest. But there is something really charming about it. It was just kind of fun to see what someone else who isn't biased thought. And he liked it. Mostly I liked introducing him to the students who are fun to watch every time they meet someone new. I like to see who tries to use their English. Unfortunately, Ian couldn't be here for long but it was nice he came nonetheless! (Oh yeah, and going out for Mexican food the night before wasn't bad either! Thai food is good - but so is variety!)

Lessons in Nursing
Anyone who thinks they are coming here just to teach would be in for a big surprise. I think the job is probably closer to being a mother, although I have no actual basis for that feeling. One area this applies to is being a nurse. Sure I don't have the starched white hat, skirt and blouse, nor the degree, but I still get to help others with their minor cuts, sprains and illnesses. This isn't to say, of course, that I don't know my place. If they need help they get it from someone who knows more than I do! However, just like when I was a kid, they aren't brought to the doctor for every problem. A couple weeks ago our cook came to me, blood dripping from his hand (he cut off a bit of the tip of his finger) and wanted some bandages. I was surprised that I got a little nauseous, since I usually don't have a problem with the sight of blood. I did send him across the road to the clinic. There, they gave him what I had already, but it only cost a dollar and I could rest assured that everything would be okay! Prayers that all my students stay healthy so I don't have to deal with any really serious problems would be great! : )

This brings to mind the attitude towards health that exists here. At the start of the school year our students wanted to go to the doctor for every little thing. This could include a headache, gas, a stomach ache, a heart that was beating really fast, eyes that hurt, etc. Since most or all of these things could potentially mean something serious, we would try to ask lots of questions to understand what the problem really was. We hesitated to bring them to the doctor if it was minor because the doctor would usually prescribe a plethora of pills. Lately, though, I think the students are better at identifying the problem. Often, they were just dehydrated. So now they will drink some water and realize the problem went away. Or they'll have tea, ask for eye drops, or eat less sugar. I think we now have a pretty healthy bunch!

Taking a Break
This week starts the first of a three week "vacation". I have many plans for things to do here to get our school spic and span. I suppose since most of you haven't been here you will not understand why this opportunity is so exciting for me. But keeping the school organized can be challenging, especially since it wasn't really organized when I got here. In the next few weeks we'll be moving around piles of rubble, scrubbing floors and windows, pulling weeds, trimming bushes, planting.... anything to give the school a spruce. The hope is that we will get systems in place to maintain a level of cleanliness heretofore unseen!

Ahhh, yes, being on break can be a really good thing, but there is also the other side of the coin - many of our students go home. It's kind of sad. I miss them! A few have said they'll call and one already has, so I think it's fair to say we'll keep in touch!

A Sense of Humor Is Always Welcome
Having meaningful conversations with my students can still be a challenge. And sometimes I feel like I want to know what they are saying in their native languages just because they sound like they are so funny! The other night Seng-Mai came downstairs holding her purse. She was already laughing and begin to pull wallets out, saying "one is from Ajarn Erika, one from the Ajarns, and one from before" then she held up the purse "a gift from one of the students". Then she said "all of these places to put money and no money - just 3 baht. One baht in each wallet." Then we joked that the wallets should at least feel useful this way, to which she responded "only one baht is mine". We were laughing and said maybe having all of those places for money was a sign of things to come. She started running off and laughingly called over her shoulder "maybe in 2008!". The story is told here more to say "hey, my students have the ability to crack me up!" than to provide something for my readers to find really funny! However, if you did, then good, I commend your imagination!

Problems Come In All Shapes and Sizes
It isn't really fair to call Diddle a problem. The official Legacy cat just had some bad luck. This cat was the most accident prone thing I have ever seen. He started off with 2 successive scorpion bites then got sick, then broke his leg, then got sick again. The last proved to be the undoing of the little cat. He ended up getting FIV, which is cat HIV. Of course it wreaked havoc on his immune system and today, after seeing he would not get better, Stacey brought him to get put to sleep. I can't say I was greatly affected since I am not much of an animal person. That being said, it was still a little sad because he was a rather playful fellow and provided a lot of fodder for conversation.

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This has been a true and faithful update of the last two weeks. Trust me, there will be more to come...

Loi Krathong Festival

Loi Krathong is a festival held on the first full moon of November. Loi means "to float" and Krathong are the little lotus shaped boats. Locals send these things floating down rivers, canals, across ponds, etc. Sometimes they also have incense sticks and candles placed in them. It seems there are quite a few different beliefs about this festival ranging from thinking it's just fun to believing that sending off a krathong will being good luck. In Chiang Mai they also send up candle-powered hot air balloons that are made of paper and wire. In addition, there are fireworks and firecrackers galore!
I took a few of the students in to Chiang Mai to wander around and see all the festivities. I think the most enjoyable part for me was to spend time with the students outside of school. It was also very beautiful and I appreciated it from a cultural standpoint. There was a parade with many of the local university students dressed in "traditional" costumes. (The average Thai person I'm sure never wore these elaborate get-ups!) The only part I had a hard time with was all of the senseless noise. People would set off small firecrackers close by and my ears would ring. Also, I felt sure that sending fire off in every direction could only result in a disaster of some sort. Fortunately for us, I was wrong about that.
A balloon being filled and then floating into the air.
The moon rose right over the Moon River Restaurant.
One of the many inventive and pretty entrants in the parade.
Loi Krathong royalty.
Don't you think they look fun to hang out with? Actually, I think a few of them are going for sultry, not fun...
Lit up boat on the Ping River.
Those little flecks of light in the water are the krathong.
A close up of the krathong.
More costumes.
So maybe my fears weren't so crazy after all...

Cambodia 2

Can you believe this is a gas station???
I had visions of using numerous modes of transportation this trip. As it was we took a sawng-tao, a bus, a plane, a boat, a tuk-tuk, and a taxi. I had kind of hoped to get a train in there. Actually, we did take the Sky Train in Bangkok. And, of course, our legs.

Transportation can really add to an experience, so we decided to take a boat back to Phnom Penh from Siem Reap. This way we were able to see some different scenery. I found the villages in the middle of the lake fascinating. I suppose for part of the year they are on dry ground and motorbike around like most. But in the rainy season the stilts on their houses come in really handy. Then they take small boats from place to place. Otherwise, the boat ride was interesting because we sat on top. And by on top, I just mean on top. We climbed over railings and stretched out our legs. We did get pretty wet at some parts of the trip. But it was actually a pretty good ride. Plus, it was nice to be out in the fresh air. Even though the sun hardly poked out, we got sunburns.
Village on stilts.
When we arrived back in Phnom Penh, we headed back to the Okay Guesthouse. We decided to tour the Palace that afternoon. I had wanted to go just to see the Silver Pagoda. We walked around the whole place and couldn't find it. After looking it up when I got home, I believe we were in it and didn't even know. How disappointing. But the rest of the Palace was interesting, and we saw some government official as we left. The whole street was closed off and an important looking guy waved to the "crowds" on his way into the palace.

That night, we went to an artist's market. I actually hope the idea catches on (as it was the first weekend) because artists and non-profits sold their own work (or the works of their members) and the money went to projects to encourage local artists. They had some very beautiful things on display. The area near the market and along the water was packed with people. The atmosphere was festive and the square in front of the Palace was full. Vendors were out selling popcorn along with the usual street food. Some people were even grilling on small, portable grills. It was a very happy scene. Later we found out why - we were regaled with fireworks since Friday had been Cambodian Independence Day.
Part of the palace and festivities.
Monday morning was more sober. We headed over to the Genocide Museum (Tuol Sleng - former Khmer Rouge S-21 prison) in an effort to learn a little bit about Cambodia's past. After about 2 1/2 hours of wandering through what had once been a prison, I was emotionally and mentally drained. It took more of a toll on me than I had thought it would. I don't really feel like I know enough about what happened to go into a lot of depth. I still can't keep it all straight after reading about it. But I do know that it was very sad. The prison had once been a school. The chalkboards are still up. And it was so strange to think that what had once been a place for children was changed to an extermination area, and is now a museum. It was especially weird because it was a beautiful day. The sun was out, the trees and grass were green. But inside the classrooms, which were changed to house prisoners, you could still see, very graphically in fact, what had happened to the people there. It is strange, too, because it happened only about 30 years ago. The other incredibly bizarre thing (to me at any rate) was that pictures were taken of all the people brought to the prison along with short bios. These pictures are currently on display. It was so strange looking at the faces of little kids and feeling like they were so innocent. I actually can't explain it all because it's just too depressing and I'll let you all find out on your own time! I'm glad that I went, if only to be oh so appreciative that my childhood was a walk in the park. I felt more philosophical and contemplative about it a couple weeks ago just after I saw the museum and read about the Khmer Rouge.
Tuol Sleng
On Monday afternoon we got on a plane for the flight to Bangkok. Then after our 9 hour bus ride we arrived in Chiang Mai Tuesday morning, ready for a day of classes. Two visa runs down, one more to go. Hmmm, I wonder where that one will lead us?

Cambodia 1

My posts are going to get a little out of order here, so I'm just going to have to rely on the intelligence of my readers to keep it all straight.
There is no really good reason for this, except that I do not always feel inclined to write a massive entry (which my trips tend to require) and so I keep putting it off. Pretty soon it is two weeks later and I still haven't written about something really cool - like my recent trip to Cambodia.
Before I launch into the escapades of my globetrotting life I should say that I am currently waiting to see what time I am going to drive over and pick up some manure for the farm. That should help anyone who might have those twinges of envy! Actually, I find that whole thing interesting as well, and might delve into my activities at the farm in another post.

Cambodia
I am embarrassed to admit that I did not know much about Cambodia before I came here. I do recall a Cambodian girl in my high school whose family had somehow fled the country. I believe that was the extent of my knowledge. I didn't know about Angkor Wat, or the troubles the country has had until very recently.
Fortunately for me I have a more knowledgeable roommate who has wanted to go to Cambodia for many years. She was very excited about this trip and I can't say I was dreading it!

More specifically we were excited to see Angkor Wat. It's pop culture claim to fame is that part of Tomb Raider was filmed there. Otherwise, it is known as a lost (to the Western world, anyway) city that had been buried in the jungle. Basically Angkor Wat is a series of temples built by a succession of kings. First they were built to Hindu gods and later to Buddhist gods. Each king had a temple(s) built where he could worship. Upon his death, the temple would be abandoned and the next king would build his own temple in which to worship. I am really oversimplifying this. But as I wandered into this vast area dotted with very old piles of rocks, it was hard to figure it out. Is this a city? What's where? It's not a city. It was strictly for the kings to worship the many different gods of their religion.

Now - about those piles of rocks. They're old. And very beautiful. They're about 800-1000 years old. As you can imagine all of the temples are falling apart. I guess it adds to the charm. Of course, what's not good is that they are continuing to fall apart. Minor efforts are being made to preserve them, but that takes money. I got the impression from our guide that much of the entrance fee lines a rich man's pockets and does not go to upkeep. For me it was kind of nice. We could wander wherever we wanted and climb around. There were hardly any signs indicating that we could not go somewhere. I liked it because it made it seem more real somehow. Not as modernized and sterile (for lack of a better word) as other preserved places. Of course, it would be good to know it will be around for future generations to see.
Millions of hands a year touching the stones is already having its toll as rocks are being smoothed out.



I should really back up a bit. I have already been here for six months! This means that it was time for another visa run. Stacey and I wrapped up a day of school, hurriedly gathered our backpacks, and left on a Monday night bus to Bangkok. This ride went quite smoothly and 10 hours later we arrived. After a few hours hanging out in the snooty part of Bangkok (with the sky train and very upscale shopping centers) we headed to the airport to catch our flight. I believe this is the shortest amount of time I have ever spent on a plane. As soon as the beverage cart made it's pass down the aisle, we were landing. Upon our arrival we got tourist Visas (for $25US) and then grabbed a cab into town.

The ride into town was the best taxi ride of my life. Maybe I should have been scared, or at least nervous, but I was more fascinated than anything. There were motorbikes and cars galore. And I believe only 2-3 stoplights the whole ride. Motorbikes and cars just push themselves into the intersection until they have taken up most of the lane and then they go. And the amount of things they carried on those motorbikes was crazy. Thailand was good preparation because this was Thailand to the extreme. After a fairly short ride we arrived at our hostel.

Here's where it's kind of a small world. I walked in the front door of this random hostel and there was a friend of mine from Bangkok! We had known the other was planning to be in Cambodia, but thought we'd just miss each other. It was a very pleasant surprise. Not least of all because he and a friend had been there for about a day and scoped out some things. After Stacey and I got our room situated (which was actually a bit of a hassle) the 4 of us headed out for dinner. We had a great time at a local place called Amok.

Wednesday afternoon saw us on a bus to Siem Reap. I really enjoy the short bus rides. You get a chance to see a lot of the country side. As we rode along it seemed like much of the scenery was under water. After reading a bit in the guidebook I found out why. During the rainy season the Tonle Sap reverses its flow and the Mekong River backs up into the Tonle Sap river, which in turn backs up into Tonle Sap Lake. The area of the lake increases from 2700 sq.km. to 16000 sq.km. This creates the largest fresh water source in Southeast Asia.

We arrived in the early evening and were "greeted" by a throng of tuk tuk drivers. It was actually one of the craziest experiences I've had traveling. Here in Asia there are many times one feels overwhelmed by the constant attention from tuk tuk and sawng tao drivers. Anywhere I go I hear "tuk tuk lady" or am honked at. (I think they have good memories, though, because this doesn't happen as often in Chiang Mai as it once did.) At any rate, the bus purposely drops travelers off a little ways from the city so they have to take another method of transportation into town. When we pulled in to Siem Reap the drivers came running after the still moving bus, pushing signs up to the window yelling at us. This was not a very good incentive to leave our little sanctuary. Of course we had to. As we got off the bus we were literally pressed in on all sides, having hostel names yelled in our ear. The first instinct was to fight (since flight was not an option) and we actually had to push our way through. They followed each of us everywhere yelling, desperately trying to get us to take their tuk tuk. Every single backpacker (there were about 10 of us) was looking around wide-eyed trying to figure out what to do. No one really wanted to say yes to one of them. A guy we met on the bus negotiated with a tuk tuk driver and 5 of us with our luggage piled into one tuk tuk just to get out of there. We were actually followed for a little ways. Once we had escaped the madness our driver pulled over and the couple in our tuk tuk moved to another.

Once we got to town it was a little easier. We had dinner and met up with a friend of ours who had arranged our hostel already. We also got a tuk tuk driver for the next morning and were set for our first day at Angkor Wat.

Watch out - Erika's behind the wheel!

For those who may - please do not get your hopes up. This post is gonna be tiny.

Today was an interesting day. It also goes to show that I'm the kinda gal that just needs to jump in feet first.

I got a call this morning saying that the guy that usually oversees the farm and drives the students around could not be reached. I was asked if I had ever driven the truck. I have actually. A couple of times at the feast. Both with a knowledgeable driver beside me and at 2am. That really wasn't too hard. Ahhh, yes, and for those who might not realize why driving the truck is a big deal, well, for starters it's a manual, and everything is opposite over here. At any rate, I gamely hopped in for a test drive to the farm. I backed out with little difficulty, but upon putting the car into first it kept stalling. I was blocking the whole road outside the school (not hard to do) when a truck came up. Still I could not get our truck to move. One of my students had walked out to make sure I didn't hit anyone while backing up. He piped up and said he had driven a truck 3 years ago. I thought "sure, hop on in and give it a whirl." Well, he did, and while he was trying to go forward he realized the parking brake was on. He pulled it out and we lurched towards the brick fence across the road. "Brake, brake, BRAKE!" I believe he froze and we plowed right into the fence. I was sure the truck would crumple, but instead the fence did. Indeed, the parking brake was the problem and I easily went on my way to the farm to 'fess up. Fortunately, Aj. Leon was completely relaxed about the whole thing. Whew! He just said "we all make mistakes - so do you feel up for bringing the girls to swimming?" "Uhhhh, sure, I can do that..." I replied. And that was that. I did. And after a lurching ride back to the school -where they all said it was so much fun - and another lurching ride to the pool - where I was congratulated upon arrival - I finally drove back to the school with hardly a problem. And now I can drive the truck!
By the way, the students all gamely offered to repair the fence. And the truck didn't have too much damage (just a little bent), so all in all, we got through things okay. I just felt bad for my student. He'd had a rough week as it was - and then this! I think he's good now since I said the whole thing was on me - and no one was mad at me or him.


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In other news, I am headed to Cambodia next week. There was a time (just a few months ago!) where I would have thought that was crazy - but now it's a neighbor. So it will be a nice week long visit and then back to school.

Chicken soup for this gal's soul

Apparently ten hours of sleep is not enough for one night. Here I sit at 4:30 in the afternoon yawning. In my defense I have been battling quite the bug this week. I'm still not sure what it was. Was it the fish caught in the river that I ate Monday night? The bad cheese I ate Tuesday? Or the fact that I hardly slept or slowed down for two weeks before that? I'm willing to bet it was a combination. At any rate, I was walking around rather hunched over for a few days (that's when I wasn't on the couch doing nothing, or the day I spent in bed sleeping). Today I ventured out to the farm to see the students and read a book. I went hoping to alleviate worries that I am alive and well, but instead I probably only created concern. They are very sensitive to us teachers getting sick. I imagine part of the reason is the fact that if I go down there go almost half of their classes. At any rate, they took note of the sunken eyes, and the thinner frame, and promptly invited me to stay at the farm for lunch. Fortunately I was able to eat the heaping plateful put in front of me and hopefully put some minds at ease.

For me being here makes me look at things a little differently. It used to be that if I were sick I would want to be well primarily because I didn't like how it felt and also because I had responsibilities to a job. I suppose on the surface this is still true. But since I now live at my job it's kind of an added incentive to make sure that I am always strong. I suppose I know that I am a healthy person, and don't really worry about my health to much because I pay attention to how I feel and generally respond accordingly. But now I feel this even greater responsibility just so as not to worry others. Next semester is going to be extremely busy so I will have to be sure not to let my guard down on sleeping and eating.

Anyway, I hadn't really started this blog with the intent of it being a synopsis of my health. Mostly, I really liked my day today because the farm was so beautiful and the students all felt like a family. We actually do have a Burmese couple living at the farm until Sunday who act kind of like parents for the Burmese students. (They all knew eachother in Burma.) It was fun, though, today seeing them all around the table talking and laughing together. They even lingered which is something they never do - usually it's eat and run. I think, too, that when we are sick we miss our family more (because really, my mom's chicken soup and my dad's urging me to eat an apple would have been much appreciated!) and feeling concern from a big "family" here was so nice.

Next week it will be back to teacher mode and hopefully building relationships with the students over the break will help and not hinder our progress.

I also will have to write an update about the Feast (The Feast of Tabernacles - part of the religious Holy Days I keep) because it was insanely busy but insanely fun after all was said and done!

Snippets

There have been several times over the past couple of weeks where I thought "ooop, I should write about that" and finally I am taking the time to do just that.

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We had a week of fireworks near the school culminating in a massive display several Friday nights ago. It turns out that for those that are well-to-do there is a huge sending off when they die. I heard, although could not actually confirm with my Thai students, that the fireworks are to guide the departed's spirit. I'm not sure where, exactly. But guide it did through both light and noise. Friday's display was beautiful, and it was fun standing with all the students in the yard, ohhhing and ahhhing, however, the week was a bit rough. They go on rather late (11 or so) and are very loud. It was a bit nerve-racking. Often the displays were accompanied by chanting, which I actually alternate between finding eerie and soothing.

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I have students from both Thailand and Burma/Myanmar. Some of the Thai students make a point to keep up with what is going on in the government. The village has a little kiosk where the newspaper is posted and I am sure they hear from others. The Thai students were (and still are) very interested in what happened with the coup and hoping that the former prime minister will not wheedle his way back into the country. (He's a tricky guy and very rich. He recently bought Manchester United - a soccer club - and they have been winning. Thailand loves soccer and can't help but follow this team.) They were also interested in the voting process for the new Constitution and additions and subtractions there have been to it, to ensure that the shady dealings of the past don't return. (The former Prime Minister Thaksin became very rich while in power. He made sure that rules were changed or relaxed to benefit his companies.)
The Burmese students also follow what is going on in their country. Burma's government is terrible. Recently prices have been going out of control in Rangoon (the capital) and many are short on food. The students at Rangoon University are also getting restless for change. Fortunately, those out of the cities are still able to afford the basics because they are more self-sufficient. There is a lot of corruption and the students often share stories about growing up that reflect this.

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Every weekend at church we get to hear the most amazing music. So many of the students are naturally talented and put their songs together the morning of. Usually they will sing in their own language (Thai, Burmese, Lahu, Shan,....), and every so often we will get a song in English. I personally really like their voices with the native music. The two meld so well, and it sounds and looks natural. When they sing in their own languages they get into the song so much more, which is no surprise since I am sure they are less nervous and the lyrics mean more to them.

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Now that I have directed a choir, I have a whole new appreciation for directors. Actually, this experience has given me a whole new appreciation for instructors of any kind. I imagine that generally when people teach, they are hoping to share something they take pleasure in, and are hoping those being instructed will too. If the instructor really cares, they put a lot of effort in to help. They are constantly trying to improve themselves, analyze the students, and find new ways of passing on knowledge. Well, I can say, then, that it can get very discouraging when others don't take advantage of the work.
I now see what past teachers and directors have done in a whole new light. I don't know why I never realized how disrespectful it was to not try my hardest when others clearly were. I suppose we assume that the teacher doesn't really care that we pass. Or, when it comes to choir, why should I try when the end result sounds good? Well, I can say from experience that when you see a sea of blank faces, yet you have given study guides, tutoring sessions, recorded music, conversation time, etc. etc. you really start to wonder why you are trying so hard and yet aren't seeing a lot of effort on the other side. Eeeks, to all those I have done that to I'm sorry! : )

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This past weekend we had a visitor come up from Bangkok. It was wonderful to have someone else around for a bit. We wandered through the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai and then went to the Riverside Restaurant to hear a live band play. We didn't expect much, but were pleasantly surprised when the Thai band began playing covers of songs by the likes of Coldplay, U2, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Considering that none of my students know who U2 is, this is a very cool thing. Not only did they play these songs, but they also sounded really good. I even liked a couple versions better than the originals.

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A few days ago, Stacey came in to say that she had seen some of the guys poking around in the yard and digging holes. When she asked what they were up to, they replied that they were digging for crickets that they were then going to fry. "Mmmmm mmmm," was my first thought upon hearing this. "I've gotta see for myself." So off I went to see the dying crickets in the plastic pop bottle. They were very plump, brown specimens - disgusting looking actually, with their long legs and huge eyes. However, I gamely went into the kitchen once they were fried. One of my other students was standing there and looked a little curious about the whole thing. I asked her if she had ever tried crickets to which she shook her head no. "I will try one if you try one on the count of three." I said. So we did. And they were actually pretty good. (Side note: They did not taste like chicken.) However, I don't think this will become a major staple of my diet. Thinking about those legs and those eyes kind of made me queasy. A welcome side effect of this cricket excavation was that the school is a lot more quiet. Those things make the most piercing noise.

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We are in the midst of finals week. Finals will be done on Thursday and after compiling grades first semester will be a wrap.

Laos: Vang Viang - Vientiane - and home!

After a week of getting back into the swing of things and eradicating yet another virus from my computer, I am ready to sit down and write about my recent trip.

Even though I am here on a year-long visa I am still required to leave the country once every 90 days. This is actually pretty great, because it gives me a ready-made excuse to see some of the surrounding area. My first visa run was to Laos.

After a somewhat hectic couple days of mid-term preparation and test-giving, Stacey and I waved good-bye to our students and walked off down the road. We opted to take the bus to Udon Thani (a 12 hour journey), another bus from Udon Thani to Nong Khai (1 1/2 hours) and then a van ride from Nong Khai to Vientiane (45 minutes). With all of that, plus waiting around at the border for our Lao visas, it was a long trip. Making it even longer was the fact that the bus was freezing and I had unwisely chosen the seats in front, making it seem extremely perilous as we careened down dark mountain roads. Many of the long distance buses have the passenger area raised higher than the driver, so you really get the full experience from up there. I still managed to get some sleep, which was especially helpful because then I was unaware of how much the driver was talking on his cell phone while driving.

Once we arrived in Vientiane (the capital of Laos) we bought bus tickets for the next portion of our journey - the four hour ride to Vang Viang. This actually proved to be an amazing trip. We passed through small villages and some of the most beautiful scenery. I didn't have any expectations starting out and then I began to find my window more interesting than my book. Going around each curve was interesting, once we saw a work elephant on the road, later a beautiful waterfall cascading down the side of a distant mountain.


Shot from video taken out the bus window.
Soon, we were crossing a large dirt field and found ourselves in what is aptly described as a backpacker haven that hasn't lost it's local charm. I found this description hard to believe until I saw it for myself. Actually, as I write about Vang Vieng, you will probably still find it hard to believe, as the description has "touristy!!!" written all over it. At any rate, we took a sawng tao to our bungalow "Le Jardin Organique", and collapsed gratefully on our surprisingly comfortable beds.

View from our bungalow.
After getting settled, we found ourselves at a local, nondescript, restaurant because it looked like they would have steak and I really wanted steak. We began to see that what we had heard about the town was true - almost every restaurant plays "Friends" - so the clientele can have a proper TV dinner. For our first night there, it was actually a relief. I allowed my brain to be numbed by the hypnotizing banter and numb to the idea that my steak was not what I had hoped!

The next morning we found our way to a little restaurant that served Lao coffee, and really good lime and honey crepes. With some food in our stomachs and a much-needed caffeine jolt, we were ready for the day. Our plans were not, however, ambitious. We put on our swimsuits and headed for our tubing trip down the river.

Along the river they sold cold drinks that they would hand out on a long stick. There were also several areas that had platforms you could pay to jump or swing from.
This turned out to be a lot of fun. It was extremely relaxing, the sun was out, and the water was clean and cool. It wasn't long however, before I found myself headed for an outgrowth of brush in the middle of the river. Unable to stop I swept into it and promptly got stuck - good-bye Stacey! Moments later another girl became stuck also, while her friend had managed to avoid the brush and continue down the river. She was a bit scared, but after some coaxing she got out. Sadly, in the process of moving her direction to help, I became even more stuck. Actually, I can't say I was too upset. As others floated past down the river their faces were a source of amusement. Eyebrows raised as they realized a person was "beached" and had become part of the scenery! Eventually I climbed slightly outside my intertube (carefully, of course, so as not to have it swept away without me aboard!), gingerly walked on the branches, and got my intertube dislodged. Ahhh, then my relaxing journey continued until I saw Stacey just up the river at one of the many bar/restaurants waiting for me. After a less than graceful exit from my tube, I made it to mats laid out above for good views of the river, and a nice Lao beer (which actually isn't bad, by the way). While there we met the other girl who had become stuck (who's "life passed before her eyes" or something to that effect!) and her friend. They were both from Israel and had been traveling extensively throughout SE Asia. We continued our trip down the river with them and arranged to meet up later that night.

Considering that we had had a lazy early afternoon we decided it was time for a little exertion. We had heard that we should go swimming in the Blue Lagoon. This sounded tempting, so we rented bikes and headed down the road. We had heard that the going would be rough, but soon it was jolting. We found our way to the "Blue Lagoon" while assuring the young boys who collected our fee that no, we did not need a guide. After a short hike, we found the cave and made our way in. This is where it gets interesting. We forgot a flashlight. Not wanting to abandon our quest, one of us came up with the bright idea (ha ha) of using the camera's flash to illuminate our way. This was okay, in that we saw the general direction to go, but frankly it was creepy. We decided that it wasn't such a great idea after all and turned around to see if the boys had a flashlight we could borrow. Outside the cave we looked at the pictures we had taken and had a laugh as images captured me almost falling (hey! it was dark!) and a Buddha! We hiked back, asked for a flashlight, expected to be asked for money, and were pleasantly surprised when the boys kindly handed it over. (This attitude seems prevalent in this little town, which is probably where it gets the reputation of still having charm!) We headed back into the cave and followed random arrows chalked on the wall. We navigated some rather harrowing holes and ledges, all the while wondering where this elusive Lagoon was. I also couldn't help but contrast this popular tourist attraction to those in the States. For example, I think we are used to having all of the seriously dangerous things roped off, steps carved to just the right level of danger for the average person to feel adventurous but not as if their life is threatened, and over-all hand-holding. All of this was lacking - that and the presence of any other people. Soon, we were climbing through smaller and smaller holes, and then we found ourselves in a tunnel that continued to become more and more narrow. For instance, I have now gotten to do the army crawl through mud, in semi-darkness. I was starting to think this was not headed towards the Blue Lagoon and Stacey was feeling the same. I also was getting slightly claustrophobic, thinking about getting stuck in there. We turned around and headed back, feeling slightly defeated for not having found the Blue Lagoon, but really good overall. We had a little adventure! And it was really fun! There were a lot of laughs, jumps of surprise (random bugs you've never seen before will do that to you!) and a sense of having done something we wouldn't normally have done. It did turn out we had entered the wrong cave. We never did have time to see the Blue Lagoon, but I can't say I feel much regret.

Scenery on the bike ride to the cave.

Just inside the cave was a Buddha statue.
That night we had a good meal at a local restaurant that amazingly did not play "Friends". Instead, we were distracted by the TV in back that was playing Thai soaps. I have never in my life seen a group of girls in heels beat a cowering young man with a rind of durian fruit. I probably never will again, but I'm glad I have. Later we met the two Israeli girls at the "Oh la la Bar" (these names...) and had a good chat. Then we turned in early and rested our weary bones.

Our final morning in Vang Viang lacked any real diversion. We went into a different breakfast place that had a very European air. I was thinking it would have amazing French pastries (Lao is known for it's French influence after all) but they were only so-so. After packing up we got ready for another bus ride, back to Vientiane.

In my opinion, Vientiane is unremarkable. There is not much to see or do and it was overcast and rainy most of the time we were there. However! - there are restaurants with amazing, and cheap, French food. And to me this is very important. Our first night in town, a Friday, we ate at La Terrasse. I had a tender steak that was cooked just right, amazing vegetables, tasty bread, good wine (wow - it does exist in this part of the world), excellent coffee and a tarte citron that was just how I remember - all for under US$15. I guess this was one of those extremely worthwhile splurges, and one I will not have again for some time. The next morning my taste buds were happy again as I had scrambled eggs, french bread, a croissant, coffee, and orange juice at the French Bakery. Sigh! It was so good and the bread tasted just right. We repeated this breakfast the next day. We also found a place that made very good pizza just north of Nam Phou Place and ate sandwiches at Le Croissant d'Or.

I stole the idea for this picture from a friend, but it mirrors my sentiments exactly!
We also checked out the morning market, Patouxai (a slight imitation of the Arc de Triomphe), Khop Chai Dew, and got massages.

Patouxai seemed like the only touristy thing in this city.
So, I would have to say it was rather relaxing. Sunday afternoon we started our trip back across the border on a direct bus from Vientiane to Udon Thani. After a quick "Pizza Hut" type dinner in Udon Thani we made it to the other bus station for our 12 hour ride home. This time around we sat a few seats back, and the air conditioning was reasonable. It made the fact that the vents dripped a little easier to take.

It was a good trip. I enjoyed seeing more of the world. However, it was so good to get back to my students and my job here. It just feels right!

CM slowly becomes familiar

I am warning you up front that this blog will be low on information and high on visuals. For some reason I feel tired today. It might have to do with the onslaught of computer problems, lack of electricity, and the deluge of rain. Does that sound sufficiently worrying? In all honesty, the lack of electricity was only for the evening, the deluge was nothing worse than one would see in Minnesota (and it made playing soccer a blast!), and the computer problems...well, I'll figure it out eventually!

This past Sunday I went to Chiang Mai to try and find a book (A Brave New World) and to check out the Sunday night bazaar again. I find that place fascinating. After being in a village all week, it is so strange for me to see all the tourists that surface in Chiang Mai on weekends. I get no end of entertainment from people watching - and then I am happy to come home!

I haven't discovered all of Chiang Mai yet - I'm sure not even close. But I have walked a good portion of the Southeast corner (my preferred way to discover a city). And now I will take you on my trip.

If I don't go to Chiang Mai on the motorbike I take a yellow Sawng Tao (literally means "two benches"):


This is just a pickup with a cover and a bench down each side (hence the name). They can get rather full, in which case people just hop on the back and ride standing up (people here must cultivate an amazing balance). This is not even close to as scary as I would have thought. In fact, it's fun, and there is less danger of touching a monk. (I did that, by the way, as I got on a Sawng Tao. I have yet to find someone else who has. Needless to say, I felt bad, as this is considered very offensive. In my defense, however, I was just trying to keep my balance!)

Continuing on.... I get off the Sawng Tao at Wawarot Market and head towards the old city.


It's not a bad walk and I enjoy looking at all the food and clothes. Sometimes, however, the smells leave something to be desired! There is a fruit here called durian that is actually banned from some hotels and some public places. I've eaten it and don't actually mind it, but the smell gets in the way and prevents a general approbation.

The Sunday night bazaar is full of tourist items, but there can be surprisingly good deals as bargaining is the norm.

Other than the bazaar, my walk in this part of the city is of interest to me because I enjoy getting my bearings, and I like watching the people and traffic.

The other part of Chiang Mai that I am familiar with is across the river. This is where they have their nice touristy restaurants. The nice thing about these restaurants is that they are right on the river, and while I can't say one gets really beautiful views, it is relaxing. An interesting side note is that they actually spray a light mist from fans in the ceiling. At first I found it annoying and then gave into my two-for-one spa/restaurant experience.

Stay tuned for more Chiang Mai adventures. This next weekend I intend to be in the vicinity of the University. I'm sure this little preview will have you coming back for more. : )

Roosters and other such ramblings

Good morning! It's just after 6am and I've just jumped out of bed excited about another day in Mae Sa Luang (our little village). Did you know that it is not a rare morning that I wake up to a rooster? And at this precise moment I am congratulating myself that I woke up to a rooster and not the King's anthem. It is presently blaring from the village PA system and I must say it is not to my musical tastes. Oop, and now it is time for the news - again broadcast loud enough to offend the ears. I'd much rather be up and writing to you than jamming a pillow over my head in frustration! : )
I don't know if all have heard my theory, but I used to say the reason I could get up most mornings at 3:30 am for my job was because I found getting up at any time of day distasteful - so I preferred to be half numb to the idea that I was leaving my cozy bed (maybe it has to do with Minnesota winters?). Somehow that mentality completely escapes me here and I mostly use my alarm as a security measure. It's a pleasure to wake up naturally.


On Tuesday through Thursday my first class does not start until eight,so I get a little down time. It is extremely relaxing and a good time to reflect. Today I have decided to use some of this time to communicate with the outside world - something I have been very remiss in all week - I'm sorry!
We are in the middle of our fourth week of classes. I can't believe how fast the time has gone. I am still really enjoying my classes and my students. It is so exciting to hear the new students start to speak English here and there. In my Beginning English class we work a lot on phonetics and it seems to be paying off. I have fun making the different sounds and trying to explain where they will feel it in their throat or mouth. I hardly treat it as the science I'm sure it is -but we have fun making our faces and figuring it out together. Their ability to read simple passages (even though they don't really understand) is getting quite good. Considering they are coming from the Thai language where they use symbols instead of letters, I'm impressed. I appreciate it even more because the Thai alphabet is as much a mystery to me today as it was when I arrived. Some of the sounds however are not.
My latest "problem" class has been choir. By a "problem" class I hardly mean the students. This means that I find it hard to be an effective teacher. Therefore, I am trying to figure out the best way to make it interesting and fun while getting results. In this class I am besot with minor challenges. First and foremost, it takes talent to be a choir teacher/director and if I possess it I certainly haven't cultivated it. In addition, trying to direct while playing piano tends to overload my one-tracked brain. And again, I haven't really cultivated my piano playing talent either. (Although, Mom and Dad, you will be thrilled to know that I am now forced to practice about an hour a day - this should help make up for all those 1/2 hour practices I skipped out on.) After choir last Friday I felt like we hadn't moved forward at all. I identified a couple areas to work on (Monday it was correct notes and timing, Wednesday correct breathing and blending), turned to the internet for free and helpful advice and then implemented some of the exercises. This week in class has been fun and I am happy to report that by the end of class yesterday I had two songs that had (almost!) all the correct notes and just traces of a voice departing from that of the choir. (Satisfied sigh...)
There are still little frustrations that stem from cultural differences. For instance, many times my classes don't understand something (frequently in Music Theory) it is because it is about a broad concept. The Thai system is based on rote learning, therefore the students are very good at vocabulary quizzes because they just memorize the definition. When it comes to theory, it is very difficult to explain a rather "simple" concept. For example, we are learning about note duration - whole note, half note, etc. When I tried to explain that we have a measure that has four beats and all need to be accounted for (with one whole note, two half notes, etc)- I got blank looks. (Smiles, actually, but here that is showing the embarrassment that they are not at all understanding!) This does not really bother me, however, because in this case I know what is required of me - patience!

In other news, I am pleased with myself for playing a loud and clear C chord on the guitar. Some may agree that this takes a little practice and I am very excited to have achieved it. I just may learn guitar this year yet.

Lastly, I want to share this website I found last night. I know there are at least a few of you who will want to know more about my place of residence. I'm excited about the site because it is in English but does not cater to tourists. It will help me tap into different events taking place around town. It's a great resource for restaurants, events, a map, travel schedules, expat stories, etc.

Since I have resorted to admitting the trivial little things that make my day like guitar chords and websites I will sign off! : )

Nothin' like learnin'...

Last week I began to realize that being here has helped me to get outside myself and do things I would normally be wary of.

For starters, two Sabbaths ago I ended up singing a Burmese song with two of my students for special music. I am trying to find ways to talk to all of the students, which led me to ask Naung Naung to teach me a short tune. Saturday morning he worked with me and patiently helped with pronunciation along the way. While we were practicing the other students told us we should sing for special music - so we did, along with Hkawn Din. It actually went well and the students enjoyed hearing me sing in a different language. It also served its purpose of helping to generate conversation of a more substantial nature than "hi" and "good afternoon, how are you?".

Next on my list of out of character moments was on the 4th of July. We had the day off and I had to plan an afternoon of activities and fun in celebration. Unfortunately, Ajarn Leon got sick so we didn't have the truck to carry all the food from the school to the farm. This was excellent incentive to hop on the motorcycle and finally learn to use it. In all honesty I had been hesitant because it kind of scared me. I got on and instantly realized that driving the motorcycle would be a fun diversion while here. Plus, a day of cleverly strapping food to the back made me feel like one of the locals.

I am particularly fond of my helmet...

The afternoon at the farm was a nice little break from the classroom. Highlights were the water balloon toss, fireworks and ice cream. The fireworks were particularly enjoyable. As a few can attest, I do not do well with fireworks displays unless they're put on by the city or professionals I can't see. I curiously watch as others walk to light the firecracker and then dodge behind whatever partition is fortuitously around. For our display this year we were presented with a pair of nine fireworks strapped together. I took one look and worried for whichever student was going to set them off. To my surprise the most obliging and gallant of my students decided the ajarns should set them off. After my requisite jokes of "I see, this is how you plan to be rid of us, etc" I realized he was serious and put on a brave face. It wasn't until later that I realized to the students they were really giving something up so that we could have a chance to go out and light the things. In the end, it was no big deal. My main problem was just getting the lighter to light in the first place. The resulting fireworks were worth it.


Yes, that is Monopoly Thailand...


All in all I would have to say it was a very enjoyable week.

My First Week of School : )

"My head hurts." So said one of my students in Thai. Aptly enough the newest one who couldn't understand a word I was saying. Poor fellow! But I can relate. By 6pm my head is hurting too and I hardly make sense when I talk. I think I am digressing more than the students are progressing! Not a pretty turn of events.

For all of that, my first week of classes is over! And on the whole I would have to say it went well. I made it, number one. Plus, the students really did seem to be learning. I am really enjoying seeing this new side to them. The side that earnestly studies and works with the other students on their class work. As the teacher of first year English I will have to share the credit for whatever the new students learn with everyone else.

The week had its wrinkles but most have been ironed out. It is hard finding the balance between too easy and too difficult, especially when there is a major communication barrier. I am trying to relate to the newer students (Fon and Chai just arrived a week ago with little to no English) and give them a break because their heads must be swimming with all the new information - new physical environment, new classmates, and the prevalence of English being spoken.

On Monday and Wednesday I had three classes: Computer 1 (typing), Choral, and Athletics. The last class I don't really have to worry about. We just go outside and play soccer. The other two, however, took monitoring.

The great thing about a small school and two teachers is that it is flexible. We had a hard time placing one of our students, Malat, because he is in the first year, but was testing towards the top of the class in everything. Since we don't want him to be bored in all of his classes we are allowing him to finish his typing class on his own and move into the advanced class now. One problem partially solved.

Choral went very well on Monday and went downhill from there. My project for the weekend is to think about how to fix that class. My problems are: the strong singers who sing loudly and at their own tempo, the "weaker" singers who aren't singing out at all, and those that don't understand that if we split into parts they are not singing the melody. All of this combined makes for a rather tedious class in which I feel many students are getting bored. It helped today when I told them to pay attention when the other groups are singing, because it will help them learn pronunication and timing. I have to remember to always point them in the direction of what will help them out.

Tuesday and Thursday I taught: Piano, Beginning English, and Music Theory. If I am not infinitely more well-versed in music by the time I get home, I have a serious deficiency! Piano was fun all week. I had ten students between Tuesday and Friday, each for half an hour. I think what I enjoyed most was that we could start at their level (which, for all but one, was the very beginning) and work at their own pace. I also enjoyed getting to know them a little better and also, while sitting there with them, I can see right when the light bulb goes on and they understand something.

Music Theory was a lot of fun from the start because I have very good materials to teach from. It is an elementary level book with worksheets and quizzes that really reinforce what we are learning. It is also really helpful because it crosses over a lot with choir and piano.

That leaves Beginning English, which I really needed to change. That class was so challenging because two of the students have a decent level of English and have been here at the school for a few months. Then there are the two new students. The first class Malat was bored while Fon and Chai were thoroughly confused. What also complicates matters is that three of these students speak Thai and Malat speaks Burmese. So Rat is kept busy trying to fill in the new students. On Tuesday we spent the first hour of class going over phonetics (which went well) and the second going over basic questions (What is your name? My name is... Where are you from? I am from... etc.) - which did not go well. After becoming mildly discouraged I came in to talk to Stacey and she mentioned that the teacher last year walked around the village pointing to things and saying the names. On Thursday I had a plan. I walked in, confidently wrote our agenda for the day on the board and proceeded to actually do said agenda with success. We first went over phonetics, which was made easier this time because the students did not have to write down the information from the board and instead read from phonetics books Stacey found. This helped a lot to put all the students at one level since it takes awhile for Fon and Chai to write. Then we worked on very simple grammer with the present tense of the verb to be. I had all the students stand up so we could act out I, you,he,she,it,we, and they. Then we used nouns from the classroom. I worried that it would be too hard, but I think they understood enough to build on next time. In our second hour of class we took our walk around the village pointing to things. All of the students found this fun because all of them had something they wanted to know the English word for.

While I am sure future weeks will bring more problems to work through, I enjoyed those I had this week. They really dealt with how each of the students learn and will provide a foundation for issues that arise in the future.

I will keep you posted.

Bangkok and beyond

Considering that not every day of my life is incredibly different from the last - nor are many of my weeks - I have decided to write a "filler" blog. In actuality, this should be of some interest as I intend to go back in time and write about my arrival in Bangkok. With all of the hoopla surrounding my arrival - well, if not hoopla, general laziness - I did not write about my first few days here before.

I arrived at 1am making it very fortunate that I have a friend currently living in Bangkok. I think that after 25 hours of being on planes (three to be precise) and in airports (I've been to Taiwan! - for three hours! - in the airport...) I would have been lost. My friend met me inside, helped with my luggage (oh so nice) and hailed a cab. I didn't have to do anything. Can you tell what a relief that was?
I worried before flying to this side of the world that 1) my flight would be way too long and 2) I would have major jet lag. These proved false. Modern convenience ensures that each person on a China Airlines flight gets their own personal screen - so three movies and several naps later I arrived - not too difficult. As for the second, for some reason I woke up at 7 am the morning after my arrival and felt ready for the day. Actually, I should credit my 4:15 am start time at Starbucks for keeping my body on it's toes.

The first thing I noticed about Bangkok was that it seemed everyone was up. At nearly 2am there were food stalls still hopping with business. There were still quite a few cars and motorbikes on the rode and people were still talking and joking around. I found that amazing. I wonder when the city sleeps.

My first day in Bangkok was relatively low-key. We went to Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is the the big Thai market. I actually was quite amazed at the labyrinth - stalls stacked close together, awnings overhead making it quite enclosed, very narrow walkways. I was glad we had gone in the morning, because as the day wore on it became much more suffocating. After wandering around we had lunch and took off. Being that it was the weekend, the sidewalks were packed with vendors around the market, and I found it difficult to both walk (without tripping!) and see everything.

The next day proved far more interesting. We widened our circle of exploration and took in the popular tourist area (Ko Ratanakosin) that houses Wat Phra Kaew, the Grand Palace, and Wat Pho. Wat (temple) Phra Kaew houses the Emerald Buddha, which I overlooked the first time I went inside. This buddha is quite popular and from the guidebooks I thought it would be easy to spot. After much contemplation and a determination that I had not in fact seen the Emerald Buddha my first trip inside the wat I went back. This time I spotted it. Seated at the top of a very elaborate altar I was reminded of the beauty of simplicity. For all the attention paid to where the buddha rests, it is swallowed up and it's significance is greatly diminished.

Next I saw Wat Pho and was again surprised that I didn't see the main attraction right away. Wat Pho houses the reclining Buddha, which is 151 feet long and 49 feet high. This time I didn't see it because it was too big and is tightly enclosed on all sides. I'm sure in both these instances it would have helped if I knew what exactly I was looking for. At any rate, once I saw the buddha it was impressive for it's size.

Before coming here I wondered how I would feel walking into these temples that represent a belief I do not believe in. I actually thought I would feel uncomfortable. Instead, I felt only as if I were looking at art. These wats are so touristy that it is very difficult not to see them as anything else.

We finished off the day by taking a boat down Mae Nom Chao river. I enjoyed getting to see the city from a little distance instead of feeling penned in by people, buildings, stalls, and heat. We also looked in a couple of the fancy hotels and even were asked to leave one. Apparently we didn't look fancy enough to belong there! It was a first for me and I thought it was rather snooty.

My last day in Bangkok I spent literally wandering everywhere and purposely getting lost. I thoroughly enjoyed it - but I was exhausted at the end of the day.

So here are some of my impressions: there are dogs that look half dead lying everywhere because of the heat, people drink their beverages out of a straw in small plastic bags, when at a restaurant the server "hovers" waiting for the order (this makes me feel rushed, but I am getting used to it), there are a large number of motorbikes and it is amazing the number of things/people that fit on them (and it's odd seeing little kids on them - someone at the school here saw a baby being breast fed as the mother drove down the road!), lastly I felt like I did not want to take a deep breath.

In retrospect I like Bangkok. I think it is an interesting city because it is changing so quickly. There are still ghost buildings from the asian crash in the late nineties, buildings of historical importance, buildings of those that are poor, and through it all the Skytrain which, from what I have read, is like a symbol of the city moving forward and trying to realize the dreams that were almost lost 10 years ago. Personally I am looking forward to going back and eating more street food!

Our class trip

Today was an answer to the restlessness of my last post. I think the students have been getting restless too. So the school sent us all on a day trip to Mae Sa Waterfalls. I was expecting a short outing actually. I heard we would be leaving around 9 or 10 this morning and that was about it. I grabbed an umbrella (I never leave home without it - and am often rewarded) and my camera and joined the crew. We piled into the back of the pick-up (my first time using the back as a mode of transporation for myself) and jolted down the road. Our journey in the truck took us through Mae Rim and, as we had to stop for lunch supplies, gave us a close-up look at one of the many colorful shops along the road. They are colorful because the stores are so shallow that all of the inventory is close to the road.
The waterfalls are only about a 15-20 minute drive from here. We arrived shortly and hiked a short way up the ten adjoining falls. We set up a little base camp of sorts and started the rest of the way up. Here is where the camera became a big deal. I had no idea how much everyone would love having their pictures taken. There was pose after pose. Needless to say, the hike up the relatively short distance took awhile. After about 2 hours of hiking/walking we returned for lunch.

I would have to say that the highlight of the day was finding out everyone was prepared to go swimming. Of course, I wasn't prepared - but in the end it was no matter and I jumped right in with the rest. Many just swam in regular clothes anyway and brought dry clothes along.

It was really a lot of fun chasing eachother around in the water, falling over, doing silly things. I think it actually really did help to bring the students closer together - and the teachers too! Since about half the students are from Burma and the other half are from Thailand, there is a natural divide that is difficult for them to cross. They have to speak English when they talk to eachother. Good for me, hard for them!

After a couple more hours of fun it started to rain and was time to go. The ride back was very interesting - but the students have a hang of how to hold the umbrellas so we weren't soaked through (although I was already soaked, so it didn't matter!). I thought it was a refreshing close to a really enjoyable day. I am already looking forward to more excursions, as they are all so much fun to be with!

Addition 6/15: Just for you Aimee! : ) A picture of Malat, myself, and Kohn Din - Plus, look at that crazy tree!

Restless was a vocab word

It is one of those spring nights, not unlike one in Minneapolis, where, after a long hot day, we are rewarded with a glowing sunset and a cooling breeze. On these types of nights at home I would get the urge to call someone up, jump in the car, and meet whomever someplace, anyplace - preferably The Brewpub, Psycho Suzi's, or the lakes. The weather calls for an outdoor patio, a good drink, and fun conversation.

It sounds like I miss home when in actuality I don't that much. However, I am feeling a bit restless tonight. I have been pacing the courtyard here at the school and wanting to go out and do something. One of my students, Beka (bayka), appeared to be in the same mood as he was riding his bike around in circles. I stopped to chat and said, "It is just one of those nights where I am feeling restless." He gave me a smile (a polite one that means he doesn't know what I am talking about but doesn't want me to have to repeat it.) I now know this smile. "Hey, restless was one of our vocabulary words," I said. "It means that a person can't sleep, that they may be nervous, and/or they can't sit still - they want to be doing something." He seemed to understand then and went pedaling off muttering "restless" under his breath so as not to forget the word.

This kind of illustrates how I feel here a lot. We are kind of out of the way, making going into town difficult, and while here I feel a little claustrophobic because talking is kind of a chore. Fortunately, there is the other teacher, Stacey, who I get along very well with, but one person day in and day out doesn't make my world feel like it's getting bigger. Of course I do speak with the students quite a lot and really enjoy all of them.

I do hope that this post doesn't sound too negative - I'm actually in a really good mood! I went running this evening with one of the students, Naley, and played badminton with her and two other gals. I also talked to our cook, Andrew, for awhile about gas prices and where he should visit when he comes to the US. (I had to admit, though it pained me, that there isn't really much for a tourist to see in Minneapolis.) Andrew has a good grasp on English. In terms of the others, I am trying to find activities that they enjoy and am hoping to connect that way. Once classes start and they all respond to my mad teaching skills I see a dramatic change in store!

If anyone has any suggestions for me about teaching (or making the most of being a foreigner who doesn't speak the language) let me know. I do intend to learn some Thai while I am here, however, I am supposed to speak English with the students since that is a big reason they come to this school. Makes sense.