We arrived safely last night, and despite the inability to sleep through the night during a power outage (which means no a/c), we made TODAY a great day!The TATTOO guesthouse staff is friendly and helpful.
We attended orientation with STAR Kampuchea, in which we learned more about Cambodian history, we practiced conversational Khmer, and our group tackled the Russian Market scavenger hunt. Needless to say, the smells and display items were simply eclectic. ;)
After consuming a bowl of rice noodles and lettuce, I was introduced to the Cambodian iced coffee. Yum! The 5 SCCS kids did a great job practicing their Khmer, and I'm so proud of their perseverance today despite the lengthy travel schedule over the past couple days.
We then traveled via tuk-tuk to the Cambodian Hope Association, the orphanage at which we'll be volunteering for the next two weeks. The actual drive to the orphanage was unique-we piled into the back of a pickup and enjoyed the ride. The experience is comparable to the video game Frogger.
When we pulled up to the orphanage, the kids ran to the vehicle and started calling, "sister, sister, I love you." We were enveloped with hugs, so we obviously hugged back ever so tightly, giving them just a glimpse of our love they will be receiving over the next two weeks. We toured the facility, took many priceless photos, and began building friendships immediately.The kids are just amazing! Tomorrow our day will be spent cleaning the plot of land that houses chickens, geese, pigs and fish.
The drive BACK from the orphanage was via tuk-tuk during rush hour. Road rules do not exist. ;) How exhilarating yet terrifying at the same time!
I am still digesting my day, so my brain is on overload and my next posts will most definitely be filled with MORE details. What I CAN say right now is that I am truly grateful for this opportunity, and I firmly believe this will be the first trip of many to share my love. Words cannot describe how good it felt to give and receive hugs today.
Share. The. Love.
Lia suhn haoy!
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