Travel to Teach offers a variety of service outlets during our time here; one of which is helping at an orphanage. Yesterday was our turn to help out. . . or rather play with the children. We were thinking of all the little ones in our family (Jackson, Hudson, Madison and Mia) as these children were all so little (the youngest was 12 months and the oldest 2 years) and so needy. We walked into a small room and were immediately greeted by 12 children who were all looking at us as if we were from another planet...we quickly brought out their toys and they were off to the races...playing, fighting, yelling and screaming. After a while it was time to feed them. The four volunteers were handed cups with a rice pudding like substance in it and a spoon; instead of feeding them in an orderly fashion, it was first come first serve type of operation. No high chairs, no bibs, just a bowl of rice pudding and a spoon. Initally, we were concerned that not all of the children got food...however we were reassured once we looked at each face and saw traces of rice pudding on each one!! Side note: they do not hold the children to feed him/her (which seemed rare) the adult sits indian style and places the baby's head upside down on the adults knees...very awkward, but it seems to work for them.
Last night we were teaching the monks again. We really enjoy our time at the Wat ("temple"). There were only 5 monks last night and only 2 of them spoke English well, but it is always entertaining. They are so curious and inquisitive and always seem to ask intelligent, thoughtful questions. The oldest monk last night was 18 years old, the youngest was 14 years old. We were told that the older monks were "in the forest, doing some meditation."
Last night Julie and I had date night...because we just don't get enough time to ourselves :). We were reflecting on our two weeks in Nong Khai saying that it felt longer, and yet when we leave it will be too soon. We really enjoy the people we have met and the places we have seen thus far. More volunteers arrive this week and a few are leaving so it is a constant welcoming/good bye party. Hello!! to all of you back home. keep your comments and emails coming, we love to read them!!
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I am glad you are able to interact with all ages of the Thai people. Sounds like you are having quite the experience and challenging yourself to do and see so much. Continue to ask do as much as you can and take the time to reflect as well. I laughed out loud at Date Night. You two are classic. Miss you! So proud of you. Eileen (Aar & Mia too!)
ReplyDeleteI love hearing all about your trip! Your entries make me feel like I am right there with you. Your attitude towards all of the new things you are experiencing is amazing. Keeping enjoying Thailand and all it has to offer! Love you both!
ReplyDeleteJulie and Ryan,
ReplyDeleteAll that you are doing is sooooo interesting. I just read about the Camping Trip to Uncle Bob and we were both chuckling! The feeding style at the orphanage sounded unique. It must be efficient but unusual.
Malama pono,
Aunty Kathy