As I drove up to my house yesterday morning at 1am, I stepped out of the car into pitch blackness, complete stillness, utter silence. It was peacefulness, a moment to treasure. I appreciate the still night.
As I stood in front of my home, I immediately thought about how ridiculous I looked, trying to punch in the code to my front door, delirious and sleep-deprived. I couldn't remember the code! I appreciate the feeling of security.
As I showered, my thoughts started racing back to the procedure for showering back at the orphanage. The shower, toilet and sink are combined into one small cubicle. Their shower is not a shower...it's a bucket of water with a cup in it. I appreciate the accessibility of fresh water and hot water heaters.
As I reached into the fridge to get some eggs, I was immediately grateful for my accessibility to food. However, I do miss the streetside market and the availability of fresh, unaltered fruit and vegetables. There were days in Cambodia where our schedule was unpredictable, and all I wanted was an apple, but I couldn't find one. It was a mental struggle, not being able to purchase what I wanted at the moment I wanted it. I had a glimpse, in that moment, how it must have felt to be a civilian during the Khmer Rouge.
As I walked the aisles of the grocery store with Axel last night, I felt a transformation within myself, for I purchased items on a need/want basis. Of course Axel "needed" the Hallmark cards that sing, the juiceboxes with characters on them, and the fancy yogurt tubes. What did I do? I resisted. I even lectured him about the fact that he didn't really "need" them just because he "wanted" them. As we checked out, my cart was not nearly as full as it usually is, granted, I spent a little more to get some organic items, but I felt refreshed, knowing that the items in our cart were things we really did "need." I appreciate my experience in Cambodia, for it gave me a new perspective.
As I sit here on the computer at 4:30am, (can't sleep), I appreciate the fact that I have a means by which to share my thoughts with all of you. I can share my story, my experiences, my thoughts. The children at CHA can't do this. It is my job to share their stories with you, to create an awareness of their situation, to be an ambassador for Children's Global Alliance, to recruit new student volunteers. The pictures I have to show will give a clear picture, but one has to truly visit the orphanage to experience the powerful feeling of love that results from this. An enormouse sense of responsibility has been fostered within me; I am now forever responsible for the continued "sharing of love" at C.H.A. I am committed. I am grateful. Thank you, God, Thomas, Axel, Mom, Dad, Jason, Jamie, all four grandparents, Dawn, Derek, Dayna, the Bullingers, the Troikes, Aunt Heidi and Kierstin, relatives abroad, Lisamarie, Jack, Anna, Tabor, Nina, Kassie, my Greeley girls, my girlfriends here in the valley, anyone I have ever taught with, my teachers throughout my lifetime, my current colleagues, my friends from MLS and MLC, Dan K, all parents of students I have ever taught, my students, my pastors, anyone who has been in my life up until now...thank you for playing a part in my life...you all have a piece of my heart. I am truly blessed. Ok...tears rolling down...love you all! Will write more later...
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Monday, May 2, 2011
Reflections...
I'm already back to reality, sitting at the Seoul airport in the Hub Lounge for 9 hours now, checking emails and Facebook, eating something other than rice and tofu, and not one mosquito or sweat bead exists. Strange as it may sound, I miss my other atmostphere "had" for the past two weeks. No one is giving me hugs, yet rather stares, for I'm the foreigner here right now. No one to de-lice or bathe, no one to bring fresh pineapple and watermelon to, and no one to read "I love you, Stinky Face" to in the melting sun. How quickly my service has ended, yet I know the extension of my love will last a long time in CHA's hearts. What I would give at this moment in time to have a little Cambodian orphan sitting right next to me, here in the airport, booked for my same flight, only to take them home and smother them with love, schooling and food. I feel ripped apart and it's only been a short time since we said our tearful goodbyes on Friday night.
I didn't mention the Friday night goodbye yet...it hurts my heart to think about it. I mean it when I honestly say our goodbye session lasted a good hour and a half. And I'm talking tears, real tears, sobbing and trying to hide it, laughter tears, hugs so strong I could feel the pain the kids were feeling from us departing. Every SCCS student cried, even Jack. What? Boys don't cry! Hardly. I felt a rush of accomplishment when I saw Jack crying, kids hanging on every inch of his body, crying along with him. Not once did one of the CHA children cry during our visit (except for ChonTim...mentioned in an earlier post), but Friday night was a different story. They tried with all their might to fight back the tears, as did we, but we couldn't hold back. You know when you try to resist crying and your throat starts to hurt? Yep...it didn't last long. I was genuinely upset, crying so hard at one point I couldn't breathe while hugging Nuch, because I hope and pray that they'll all be there the next I can visit. They told me that Jesus loves me and that I'll always be in their heart-in return, I told them to be strong, take care of each other, and keep smiling. I promised I would come back.
I miss them...
I didn't mention the Friday night goodbye yet...it hurts my heart to think about it. I mean it when I honestly say our goodbye session lasted a good hour and a half. And I'm talking tears, real tears, sobbing and trying to hide it, laughter tears, hugs so strong I could feel the pain the kids were feeling from us departing. Every SCCS student cried, even Jack. What? Boys don't cry! Hardly. I felt a rush of accomplishment when I saw Jack crying, kids hanging on every inch of his body, crying along with him. Not once did one of the CHA children cry during our visit (except for ChonTim...mentioned in an earlier post), but Friday night was a different story. They tried with all their might to fight back the tears, as did we, but we couldn't hold back. You know when you try to resist crying and your throat starts to hurt? Yep...it didn't last long. I was genuinely upset, crying so hard at one point I couldn't breathe while hugging Nuch, because I hope and pray that they'll all be there the next I can visit. They told me that Jesus loves me and that I'll always be in their heart-in return, I told them to be strong, take care of each other, and keep smiling. I promised I would come back.
I miss them...
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Cambodia Day 12/13
What a privilege...
As we departed by van from Phnom Penh, I witnessed the horrifying reality for those individuals living in poverty. In the rural communities we passed shack after shack, each of which provided less protection than our tents for camping. Amidst the literal shambles for housing, little tiny tan butts ran around playing in the dirt, water buffalo comprised of nothing more than skin and bones, worked without complaint, and near-collisive situations between motos and monstrous transport vehicles presented themselves every 1-2 minutes.
As we passed immense school structures, hundreds of uniform-clad Cambodians play happily in the yards while the mothers worked purposefully selling vegetables and fish on the roadside, fathers in the fields up to their collarbones in water. No midmorning massages, yoga classes or pedicures, yet hard, sweaty, dedicated labor. As the saying goes, "There's no rest for the weary." This is truly an understatement...they are not only weary, they are severely fatigued, malnourished, and poverty stricken. My heart breaks for them. I wanted to stop at every vegetable stand, get out and hug each one, telling them how much I respect them.
Chong Kneas, a floating village, gave me a gutwrenching feeling in my stomach upon arrival. A village in existence for over 100 years, Chong Kneas is home to many individuals, both Cambodian and Vietnamese. Homes on stilts or floating barrels, floating schools, a floating pharmacy, and a floating church...it was all there in the middle of Tonle Sap Lake. My description here doesn't do the village justice, so my photos will provide the reality. (to be uploaded to FB when I get home)
Our final destination this weekend was a beautiful privilege granted to us, so thank YOU, Lisamarie. Angkor Wat, meaning City Temple, was built for King Suryavarman II during the late 12th century. Just north of Siem Reap, I had the privilege of exploring many temples filled with beautiful architecture and breathtaking decor. I learned that Buddha holds 8 positions with his hands, each holding a meaning: meditation, forgiveness, and Earth as a witness. We also visited Ta Prohm, the famous jungle temple from Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. :) Our tour guide, Vi-Sna, built our background knowledge extensively in just 6 short hours.
A beautiful ending to a beautiful opportunity...
As we departed by van from Phnom Penh, I witnessed the horrifying reality for those individuals living in poverty. In the rural communities we passed shack after shack, each of which provided less protection than our tents for camping. Amidst the literal shambles for housing, little tiny tan butts ran around playing in the dirt, water buffalo comprised of nothing more than skin and bones, worked without complaint, and near-collisive situations between motos and monstrous transport vehicles presented themselves every 1-2 minutes.
As we passed immense school structures, hundreds of uniform-clad Cambodians play happily in the yards while the mothers worked purposefully selling vegetables and fish on the roadside, fathers in the fields up to their collarbones in water. No midmorning massages, yoga classes or pedicures, yet hard, sweaty, dedicated labor. As the saying goes, "There's no rest for the weary." This is truly an understatement...they are not only weary, they are severely fatigued, malnourished, and poverty stricken. My heart breaks for them. I wanted to stop at every vegetable stand, get out and hug each one, telling them how much I respect them.
Chong Kneas, a floating village, gave me a gutwrenching feeling in my stomach upon arrival. A village in existence for over 100 years, Chong Kneas is home to many individuals, both Cambodian and Vietnamese. Homes on stilts or floating barrels, floating schools, a floating pharmacy, and a floating church...it was all there in the middle of Tonle Sap Lake. My description here doesn't do the village justice, so my photos will provide the reality. (to be uploaded to FB when I get home)
Our final destination this weekend was a beautiful privilege granted to us, so thank YOU, Lisamarie. Angkor Wat, meaning City Temple, was built for King Suryavarman II during the late 12th century. Just north of Siem Reap, I had the privilege of exploring many temples filled with beautiful architecture and breathtaking decor. I learned that Buddha holds 8 positions with his hands, each holding a meaning: meditation, forgiveness, and Earth as a witness. We also visited Ta Prohm, the famous jungle temple from Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. :) Our tour guide, Vi-Sna, built our background knowledge extensively in just 6 short hours.
A beautiful ending to a beautiful opportunity...
Cambodia Day 11
Such a different life...
Little Mimi, prounounced my-my, is 2 years old, the youngest at the orphanage. Although she has living relatives, including her mother, she calls the orphanage her home because her mother has cancer and cannot provide adequate care for her. We had the privilege of meeting Mimi's mother, and what a lovely lady she is, so happy and enthusiastic to be able to spend time with her daughter on her "better" days. I can't imagine the thought of having to do this, but Mimi is in good hands at the orphanage. The older boys see to it that she gets the approrpriate amount of help and care she needs.
ChanTim, a 15 year old female, has apparently been sick for many years with swollen lymph nodes in multiple areas, painful stomach issues, and extreme fatigue and depression. Lisamarie discovered her under the sheets the other day, sobbing beyond her own control. She replied with, "I'm okay, no problem." Cambodian people do not cry, it's not common in their culture, so this was a rarity for us to witness. After scanning her body and locating points of pain, we drew a diagram for the doctor and she was taken by the director to the private hospital, for the few prior hospital visits yielded no results. We found out later that night she has TB, and treatment was started immediately. I pray she gets well. I made sure to give her extra hugs as I was leaving, kissed her several times on the forehead, and told her she'd be okay. God bless you, ChanTim.
As I watched the younger girls engrossd in play with their new mini dollhouses today, memories of my childhood started flashing before me. The girls were so immersed in play, keeping themselves entertained for a lengthy amount of time. I was that child, engaged in play with Barbies at my Grandma Schrenk's house. My cousin Jess and I could sit for hours playing "House" and "Happy Family." My Grandma Dahlquist and I would play "Foot Fashion Show," hold up a curtain, put Barbie shoes and boots on our fingers, and present dance numbers for each other. Grandma D and S, thank you for encouraging "play," and providing me the time to explore my creativity. I never had the latest gadgets, the newest toys in the commercials, but I was given the opportunity to truly "play" and explore myself as a person. As I watched SreyKim, Tira and Tita play, I saw myself, and I firmly believe they will grow to be competent, independent individuals.
I am blessed. I cannot repeat this enough. My husband never knew his father, let alone the fact he had two brothers, until three years ago when he was connected with them. After holding intimate conversations with several children at CHA, I now understand the pain my husband must have been internalizing so discretely. Thomas, I am so happy you've been reconnected with your father and two brothers. The connection with my brother and sister is something I treasure, a bond that is so strong it's difficult to explain to my middle school students...but they will realize it one day, just like I did.
A large banner hangs in the city of Phnom Penh: "Volunteers are the Backbone of the Community." I am proud to resonate with this banner-I am grateful for this opportunity extended to me. The more kids and adults I can expose, the more lifelong assistance that can strengthen the backbone of Phnom Penh, and specifically aiding the goal of self-sustainability of the Cambodian Hope Association.
Little Mimi, prounounced my-my, is 2 years old, the youngest at the orphanage. Although she has living relatives, including her mother, she calls the orphanage her home because her mother has cancer and cannot provide adequate care for her. We had the privilege of meeting Mimi's mother, and what a lovely lady she is, so happy and enthusiastic to be able to spend time with her daughter on her "better" days. I can't imagine the thought of having to do this, but Mimi is in good hands at the orphanage. The older boys see to it that she gets the approrpriate amount of help and care she needs.
ChanTim, a 15 year old female, has apparently been sick for many years with swollen lymph nodes in multiple areas, painful stomach issues, and extreme fatigue and depression. Lisamarie discovered her under the sheets the other day, sobbing beyond her own control. She replied with, "I'm okay, no problem." Cambodian people do not cry, it's not common in their culture, so this was a rarity for us to witness. After scanning her body and locating points of pain, we drew a diagram for the doctor and she was taken by the director to the private hospital, for the few prior hospital visits yielded no results. We found out later that night she has TB, and treatment was started immediately. I pray she gets well. I made sure to give her extra hugs as I was leaving, kissed her several times on the forehead, and told her she'd be okay. God bless you, ChanTim.
As I watched the younger girls engrossd in play with their new mini dollhouses today, memories of my childhood started flashing before me. The girls were so immersed in play, keeping themselves entertained for a lengthy amount of time. I was that child, engaged in play with Barbies at my Grandma Schrenk's house. My cousin Jess and I could sit for hours playing "House" and "Happy Family." My Grandma Dahlquist and I would play "Foot Fashion Show," hold up a curtain, put Barbie shoes and boots on our fingers, and present dance numbers for each other. Grandma D and S, thank you for encouraging "play," and providing me the time to explore my creativity. I never had the latest gadgets, the newest toys in the commercials, but I was given the opportunity to truly "play" and explore myself as a person. As I watched SreyKim, Tira and Tita play, I saw myself, and I firmly believe they will grow to be competent, independent individuals.
I am blessed. I cannot repeat this enough. My husband never knew his father, let alone the fact he had two brothers, until three years ago when he was connected with them. After holding intimate conversations with several children at CHA, I now understand the pain my husband must have been internalizing so discretely. Thomas, I am so happy you've been reconnected with your father and two brothers. The connection with my brother and sister is something I treasure, a bond that is so strong it's difficult to explain to my middle school students...but they will realize it one day, just like I did.
A large banner hangs in the city of Phnom Penh: "Volunteers are the Backbone of the Community." I am proud to resonate with this banner-I am grateful for this opportunity extended to me. The more kids and adults I can expose, the more lifelong assistance that can strengthen the backbone of Phnom Penh, and specifically aiding the goal of self-sustainability of the Cambodian Hope Association.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Çambodia Day 10
Cuz Baby you're a fire-work!
Dance party in session! These kids have some serious rhythm and moves. I mean, I don't condone Justin Bieber, but when the kids are jumping around, Thong and Kia are break dancing, and Hin is wiggling his little booty, I can allow a little Bieber fever in my life. We sweat ourselves silly, but it was so worth it.
Today is hard. I think I've shed tears three or four times, but each time I pull down my shades as to not concern the kiddos. Tears are a sign of something wrong, but seriously, I have to leave my precious Cambodian kiddos? :( I am going to miss pulling up to the orphanage in the tuk-tuk being greeted by the many smiling faces. I know we make their day, but oh, how they make mine. They know tomorrow is our last official day at the orphanage-they don't cry, they just hug, and I mean really hug-the tightest yet occurred today when we were leaving.
I dread the thought of departing, knowing that Monday morning no one will be there to read books to them, no one will be there to tend to their wounds, no one will be there to stock the medicine cabinet or bathe them or de-lice them or sing to them. BUT, I know they will be okay, for they are all in continuous survival mode. They take care of themselves, they take care of each other. While sitting with kids on the swing today fixing hair and blowing bubbles, I witnessed Isaal (5 years old) take off his clothes, turn on the hose, fill up the plastic tub with just the right amount of water, add body wash, get in, scrub down, and rinse. No help needed, just taking care of himself. I immediately thought of Axel's baths. How different. I mean, yes, Axel is becoming independent, wanting to add the bubble bath, but nothing close to what I curiously watched this afternoon. I think I'll try this when I get back home: place a plastic tub outside on our deck, hand Axel the water hose and soap, and tell him to wash himself. Ha!
Survival mode-24 hours a day, every day of the year. These 10 days we've been here...the kids have been able to step out of survival mode and enjoy life. During these 10 days we lightened their load...instead of sweeping the floors and mopping, they got to play soccer with Tabor and Jack. Instead of sitting alone in the corner, they got to color and draw with Kassie, Anna and Nina. The kids love our kids. As a token of appreciation, they've created handmade bracelets and rings for us. In turn, we've supplied them with fresh fruit , veggies, and tons of love. For the orphanage children, it will be back to survival mode on Saturday...it kills me to think about this. I feel the sadness throughout my body; it's overwhelming as I sit here on the computer. I breathe. I shed a tear. I breathe again. I will come back. This is only the beginning.
Dance party in session! These kids have some serious rhythm and moves. I mean, I don't condone Justin Bieber, but when the kids are jumping around, Thong and Kia are break dancing, and Hin is wiggling his little booty, I can allow a little Bieber fever in my life. We sweat ourselves silly, but it was so worth it.
Today is hard. I think I've shed tears three or four times, but each time I pull down my shades as to not concern the kiddos. Tears are a sign of something wrong, but seriously, I have to leave my precious Cambodian kiddos? :( I am going to miss pulling up to the orphanage in the tuk-tuk being greeted by the many smiling faces. I know we make their day, but oh, how they make mine. They know tomorrow is our last official day at the orphanage-they don't cry, they just hug, and I mean really hug-the tightest yet occurred today when we were leaving.
I dread the thought of departing, knowing that Monday morning no one will be there to read books to them, no one will be there to tend to their wounds, no one will be there to stock the medicine cabinet or bathe them or de-lice them or sing to them. BUT, I know they will be okay, for they are all in continuous survival mode. They take care of themselves, they take care of each other. While sitting with kids on the swing today fixing hair and blowing bubbles, I witnessed Isaal (5 years old) take off his clothes, turn on the hose, fill up the plastic tub with just the right amount of water, add body wash, get in, scrub down, and rinse. No help needed, just taking care of himself. I immediately thought of Axel's baths. How different. I mean, yes, Axel is becoming independent, wanting to add the bubble bath, but nothing close to what I curiously watched this afternoon. I think I'll try this when I get back home: place a plastic tub outside on our deck, hand Axel the water hose and soap, and tell him to wash himself. Ha!
Survival mode-24 hours a day, every day of the year. These 10 days we've been here...the kids have been able to step out of survival mode and enjoy life. During these 10 days we lightened their load...instead of sweeping the floors and mopping, they got to play soccer with Tabor and Jack. Instead of sitting alone in the corner, they got to color and draw with Kassie, Anna and Nina. The kids love our kids. As a token of appreciation, they've created handmade bracelets and rings for us. In turn, we've supplied them with fresh fruit , veggies, and tons of love. For the orphanage children, it will be back to survival mode on Saturday...it kills me to think about this. I feel the sadness throughout my body; it's overwhelming as I sit here on the computer. I breathe. I shed a tear. I breathe again. I will come back. This is only the beginning.
Cambodia Day 9
Doctor Gutmann, at your service. I took the initiative today, after examining several kids' feet, to drench toes and fingers in hydrogen peroxide, apply antibiotic cream, and wrap wounds with band-aids. Not even a flinch when the peroxide bubbled out of control...it didn't even phase the four boys. I'm not surprised their feet and hands are damaged, for they are constantly climbing trees, playing soccer, and peeling their own fruit with knives. It's just the way it's always been for them...they get hurt, they either brush it off or take care of it themselves.
Brusha, brusha, brusha...
The kids do not, under any circumstance, brush their teeth. It is not enforced, and the kids, especially the littles, are not disciplined enough to keep track of a toothbrush and toothpaste, let alone brush regularly, in a house of 70+ kids. So...Lisamarie handed them out when they were bathing today. It worked! I just hope and pray that the orphanage helpers regularly remind them to brush.
On our lunch break, again...complete silence as we are escorted through the town. We continue to take it all in. I feel at peace during our tuk-tuk rides-I don't even notice the excessive noise anymore. Road rules do not exist and neither do carseats. Newborns and little ones ride on laps in the front seats!
Afternoon yoga...wait, let me rephrase that...hot yoga so hot that beads of sweat drip from your forehead into your eyes, your shirt ever so still because you'd have to literally peel it off. We did some yoga again today at the request of Kia, the little boy that appears to be a pro at headstands. We have a blast doing yoga in the church...a little "tree"here, a little "warrior" there...priceless. What do they love? Crow/Bakasana. ;)
The kids at the orphanage can come and go as they please, one in one out. Anna and I decided to take a couple boys on a bike ride today. We didn't have to sign any consent, we didn't even have to tell anyone we were leaving. Why would we? We took them for a ride, bought them some candy at a little stand, and enjoyed the breeze.
Never underestimate the power of the Cambodian sunshine.I am on fire. I am not complaining, but man, the heat! The sun! It doesn't even phase the kids. I went boldly to Cambodia with fair skin and I'm coming back boldly kinda burned...haven't had a sunburn like this since I was 10 in Florida. I have learned to embrace the heat and sun on this trip.
Hin, love of my Cambodian life, has grown on me in the past 48 hours. I am going to miss him so much. Those big brown eyes, the wife beater and skinny little arms...I have already dreamed about him. I don't want to leave him...my heart hurts.
Appreciation Note:
How much do you love your coffee maker? Well, Lisamarie and I really had to work hard to keep our habit satisfied. We just couldn't fathom swallowing another drop of guesthouse coffee this morning, so I picked up a bag of ground coffee from the supermarket. Silly Jen thought we could mix it with water...nope. When we asked for assistance we received a miniature butterfly net, literally. Let the science experiment begin.
Brusha, brusha, brusha...
The kids do not, under any circumstance, brush their teeth. It is not enforced, and the kids, especially the littles, are not disciplined enough to keep track of a toothbrush and toothpaste, let alone brush regularly, in a house of 70+ kids. So...Lisamarie handed them out when they were bathing today. It worked! I just hope and pray that the orphanage helpers regularly remind them to brush.
On our lunch break, again...complete silence as we are escorted through the town. We continue to take it all in. I feel at peace during our tuk-tuk rides-I don't even notice the excessive noise anymore. Road rules do not exist and neither do carseats. Newborns and little ones ride on laps in the front seats!
Afternoon yoga...wait, let me rephrase that...hot yoga so hot that beads of sweat drip from your forehead into your eyes, your shirt ever so still because you'd have to literally peel it off. We did some yoga again today at the request of Kia, the little boy that appears to be a pro at headstands. We have a blast doing yoga in the church...a little "tree"here, a little "warrior" there...priceless. What do they love? Crow/Bakasana. ;)
The kids at the orphanage can come and go as they please, one in one out. Anna and I decided to take a couple boys on a bike ride today. We didn't have to sign any consent, we didn't even have to tell anyone we were leaving. Why would we? We took them for a ride, bought them some candy at a little stand, and enjoyed the breeze.
Never underestimate the power of the Cambodian sunshine.I am on fire. I am not complaining, but man, the heat! The sun! It doesn't even phase the kids. I went boldly to Cambodia with fair skin and I'm coming back boldly kinda burned...haven't had a sunburn like this since I was 10 in Florida. I have learned to embrace the heat and sun on this trip.
Hin, love of my Cambodian life, has grown on me in the past 48 hours. I am going to miss him so much. Those big brown eyes, the wife beater and skinny little arms...I have already dreamed about him. I don't want to leave him...my heart hurts.
Appreciation Note:
How much do you love your coffee maker? Well, Lisamarie and I really had to work hard to keep our habit satisfied. We just couldn't fathom swallowing another drop of guesthouse coffee this morning, so I picked up a bag of ground coffee from the supermarket. Silly Jen thought we could mix it with water...nope. When we asked for assistance we received a miniature butterfly net, literally. Let the science experiment begin.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Cambodia Day 8
How much do you appreciate your mops, cleaners, scrubbing brushes and dustpans? After today, I appreciate them so much more. Imagine this...suds, suds and more suds, little naked bodies sliding on bellies across the floor, brooms pushing the soapy water out the door, little hands on giant sponges scrubbing the stained walls, ants running in terror, toilets turning white again, t-shirts wiping the floor somewhat dry, fans blowing to finish the drying, giggling ringing through the orphanage...teamwork is an understatement. The last time the orphanage was scrubbed down like this was a year ago, seriously. The FlipCam material for today is going to be an absolute joy to view. One minute I would see a bubble-covered brown body, and then the next minute he was sliding under the bed and to the other side of the room. Loved it!
Isaal...my clone of Axel...I want to bring him home. From across the room this afternoon I watched him dress himself in Axel's overalls. A little too short, but so adorable. I have to admit that I'm a little obsessed with him and would bring him back home with me in a heartbeat, if it was allowed. Cambodian children are only allowed to be sponsored from overseas. To adopt him I would need to live in Cambodia. He's five and only a tad bit taller than my Axel who's almost three. His eyes, oh his eyes...I can just see the pain inside, so I hug him, hug him, hug him. Nalin, a lady that works at the orphanage, told Isaal in Khmer today that Jen wanted to take him home with her-he shook his head no. Then she told him that I had a little boy like him-he then considered my offer. ;)
Ah...how could I forget the fruit/veggie/meat stand purchase with Lisamarie today...seriously. Meat hung from wires, all kinds, and the giant heart, ick.Fish without heads, limes engrossed with flies, and unique looking items that we weren't sure whether or not they were fruit or veggies? We were dying laughing, gagging from time to time. But again, to witness the smiles on the faces when we arrived...so worth the swatting of flies and near-vomit sensations. Watermelon for all! Potatoes, onions, cucumbers, carrots, pork, etc. AND...all organic, and I mean organic. ;)
Round 2 of de-licing today...we realized, after reading the label on the bottle this time, that dry hair was the prerequisite...woops. After lathering little heads, the kids had to stand on the wall and wait for 10 minutes, the magical numbers of minutes required for the shampoo to kill the lice in their hair. Ah yes, I will be de-licing myself tonight as well. The lice is present in mostly females, but the boys feel left out. So...I washed Thong's head as well...I think he just wanted a scalp massage-I don't blame him.
Final note...these kids have some rhythm. I placed my earphones into tiny ears, flipped on some Timbaland and Will.I.Am...and the shoulders started rockin, the heads began shakin...priceless! I love to just watch the kids in action. By doing this I get a sense of their personality, their likes and dislikes-it's then that I can jump in with conversation, kick a ball around, or simply hug them.
I <3 Cambodia.
Isaal...my clone of Axel...I want to bring him home. From across the room this afternoon I watched him dress himself in Axel's overalls. A little too short, but so adorable. I have to admit that I'm a little obsessed with him and would bring him back home with me in a heartbeat, if it was allowed. Cambodian children are only allowed to be sponsored from overseas. To adopt him I would need to live in Cambodia. He's five and only a tad bit taller than my Axel who's almost three. His eyes, oh his eyes...I can just see the pain inside, so I hug him, hug him, hug him. Nalin, a lady that works at the orphanage, told Isaal in Khmer today that Jen wanted to take him home with her-he shook his head no. Then she told him that I had a little boy like him-he then considered my offer. ;)
Ah...how could I forget the fruit/veggie/meat stand purchase with Lisamarie today...seriously. Meat hung from wires, all kinds, and the giant heart, ick.Fish without heads, limes engrossed with flies, and unique looking items that we weren't sure whether or not they were fruit or veggies? We were dying laughing, gagging from time to time. But again, to witness the smiles on the faces when we arrived...so worth the swatting of flies and near-vomit sensations. Watermelon for all! Potatoes, onions, cucumbers, carrots, pork, etc. AND...all organic, and I mean organic. ;)
Round 2 of de-licing today...we realized, after reading the label on the bottle this time, that dry hair was the prerequisite...woops. After lathering little heads, the kids had to stand on the wall and wait for 10 minutes, the magical numbers of minutes required for the shampoo to kill the lice in their hair. Ah yes, I will be de-licing myself tonight as well. The lice is present in mostly females, but the boys feel left out. So...I washed Thong's head as well...I think he just wanted a scalp massage-I don't blame him.
Final note...these kids have some rhythm. I placed my earphones into tiny ears, flipped on some Timbaland and Will.I.Am...and the shoulders started rockin, the heads began shakin...priceless! I love to just watch the kids in action. By doing this I get a sense of their personality, their likes and dislikes-it's then that I can jump in with conversation, kick a ball around, or simply hug them.
I <3 Cambodia.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Cambodia Day 7
I am baffled by the amounts of trash. I see it out of every corner of my eye. Why? Why? Why does it have to be like this? Some things are definitely out of our control and we just have to trust that everything will be okay. Why do I feel so compelled to fix it? So...I continue to do my part on a small scale at the orphanage. I sweep, then I sweep some more, and some more. But wait! No dustpan? I had a dream last night...a dream about my kitchen floor mop...oh how exhilarating it would be to clean their floors with it! A girl can only dream...
Lucky Supermarket-literally where we can purchase random, lucky items. Hmmmm...what about donuts? Sure. "Could we please get 50 donuts and soymilks to go, please?" What a treat for the kids! I witness their meals, and they're always the same-cup of rice and broth with a sprinkle of veggies. Imagine that...could you make it your reality? It has been my reality for the past week or so, and I'm getting accustomed to it. I do have the option to eat fried rice, but I experienced the consequences-no ankles in sight. I do highly value the organic foods here though...no crazy pesticides to worry about.
Sock-nee, the boy who made me a personalized bracelet, granted me some time to have a conversation today. I asked him about his family and how he arrived at CHA. His immediate reply-no mother, no father, no sister, no brother. His grandmother dropped him off, but she is no more. My heart sank. I looked right into his eyes and said, I am so sorry. I just wanted to scoop him up and stuff him in my suitcase and take him home with me. To be honest, I want to do that with Isaal, Hin, and Thong as well. I just want to give them so much love, hug them and squeeze them, wrap them in clean sheets, take them to Larkburger and get them a vanilla shake...I love them like they were my own. I call Isaal my lil Axel, as he is the only boy at the orphanage receiving Axel's donated clothing, because he is the smallest one.
I read I LOVE YOU STINKY FACE to 6 boys today, and while I read they pointed out pictures on the page. The kids desperately want to learn, they want to be read to, they want attention, and that is why we are here. As I spoke with Noit today, she asked when we were leaving. When I told her it was this weekend, she turned her face from me and the smile morphed into an immediate frown. So I told her I would come back sometime soon-jackpot-immediate frown reversal. I will come back. I will come back. I will bring a new group...this is my new mission.
Life is so different here...as we drive around in the tuk-tuk from place to place, I take it all in. So many homeless roaming the streets, trying desperately to earn some money. Women with newborns strung over their shoulders, begging. The disabled selling RayBans and books...and then the wealthy, driving around in a Lexus.
I am simply in awe. I am processing each visual situation. What a hard life individuals have here...I appreciate my home, my family, my friends. I don't come from a wealthy family at all...but here, I feel like I've been spoiled in America. Things will change when I get back. I will make the changes. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for molding me into the person I am today. I love you both so much!
Lucky Supermarket-literally where we can purchase random, lucky items. Hmmmm...what about donuts? Sure. "Could we please get 50 donuts and soymilks to go, please?" What a treat for the kids! I witness their meals, and they're always the same-cup of rice and broth with a sprinkle of veggies. Imagine that...could you make it your reality? It has been my reality for the past week or so, and I'm getting accustomed to it. I do have the option to eat fried rice, but I experienced the consequences-no ankles in sight. I do highly value the organic foods here though...no crazy pesticides to worry about.
Sock-nee, the boy who made me a personalized bracelet, granted me some time to have a conversation today. I asked him about his family and how he arrived at CHA. His immediate reply-no mother, no father, no sister, no brother. His grandmother dropped him off, but she is no more. My heart sank. I looked right into his eyes and said, I am so sorry. I just wanted to scoop him up and stuff him in my suitcase and take him home with me. To be honest, I want to do that with Isaal, Hin, and Thong as well. I just want to give them so much love, hug them and squeeze them, wrap them in clean sheets, take them to Larkburger and get them a vanilla shake...I love them like they were my own. I call Isaal my lil Axel, as he is the only boy at the orphanage receiving Axel's donated clothing, because he is the smallest one.
I read I LOVE YOU STINKY FACE to 6 boys today, and while I read they pointed out pictures on the page. The kids desperately want to learn, they want to be read to, they want attention, and that is why we are here. As I spoke with Noit today, she asked when we were leaving. When I told her it was this weekend, she turned her face from me and the smile morphed into an immediate frown. So I told her I would come back sometime soon-jackpot-immediate frown reversal. I will come back. I will come back. I will bring a new group...this is my new mission.
Life is so different here...as we drive around in the tuk-tuk from place to place, I take it all in. So many homeless roaming the streets, trying desperately to earn some money. Women with newborns strung over their shoulders, begging. The disabled selling RayBans and books...and then the wealthy, driving around in a Lexus.
I am simply in awe. I am processing each visual situation. What a hard life individuals have here...I appreciate my home, my family, my friends. I don't come from a wealthy family at all...but here, I feel like I've been spoiled in America. Things will change when I get back. I will make the changes. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for molding me into the person I am today. I love you both so much!
Cambodia Day 6
Today was our history lesson day, in which we visited the Killing Fields and the National Museum.
At Choeung Ek we witnessed the holes where mass graves once existed. The Khmer Rouge tortured and executed many people here, using such tools as hoes and shovels. Babies' heads were smashed against trees, the soon-to-be executed were blindfolded, bound by hand, and forced to their knees, not knowing that the blow of a weapon would quickly approach their skull. Remnants of bones and teeth still exist on the ground, and the moment I noticed them my stomach dropped. I was sickened at the thought of so many people dying here. Our tour guide lost most of his family in these killing fields, and he continuously spoke about the crazy Khmer Rouge. I agree with him! I couldn't fight my tears-I felt so sorry for him...I can't imagine my life without my family.
Read more at http://www.cambodia.org/khmer_rouge/ if you're interested. ;)
The National Museum housed so many archeological finds including statues of Buddha, the feminine divinity, and jewels recovered at Ankgor Wat. We took the opportunity here to do a yoga photo shoot. Ha! Hilarious!
At Choeung Ek we witnessed the holes where mass graves once existed. The Khmer Rouge tortured and executed many people here, using such tools as hoes and shovels. Babies' heads were smashed against trees, the soon-to-be executed were blindfolded, bound by hand, and forced to their knees, not knowing that the blow of a weapon would quickly approach their skull. Remnants of bones and teeth still exist on the ground, and the moment I noticed them my stomach dropped. I was sickened at the thought of so many people dying here. Our tour guide lost most of his family in these killing fields, and he continuously spoke about the crazy Khmer Rouge. I agree with him! I couldn't fight my tears-I felt so sorry for him...I can't imagine my life without my family.
Read more at http://www.cambodia.org/khmer_rouge/ if you're interested. ;)
The National Museum housed so many archeological finds including statues of Buddha, the feminine divinity, and jewels recovered at Ankgor Wat. We took the opportunity here to do a yoga photo shoot. Ha! Hilarious!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Cambodia Day 5
The hottest of days, but a productive day it was.
We started our day with games and puzzles, soccer and frisbee. Again we added more supplies to the medicine cabinet, so thank you to those that donated medical supplies. Additionally, I morphed into teacher mode and worked with a handful of kiddos eager to learn. We covered the alphabet, numbers, blends and the like. Anna took the initiative to read some pre-decodable books with kiddos as well. Kassie was up to her knees in sticky alphabet letters today, Jack was nonstop soccer boy, Nina delivered roofing parts for the coop, and Tabor wired away on the coop, frequently dodging the leaves.
The chicken coop roof is finished and now the hens can enjoy a shaded, protective environment. I hammered my thumb a few times, but by the end I had the hammering thing down. When we arrived to the farm today I noticed a large pile of what I thought was soil, but every other inch of the soil contained trash upon trash. My first assumption was that someone came and dumped their garbage in the middle of the night, but not possible because some of the boys sleep there in the hut. I asked Ritchie the director about the situation and he said that he ordered some soil to fill the large hole, and this is what you typically get. Trash is everywhere, and I found it ironic that near the city center many signs are posted highlighting the clean environment. Cambodia would literally need a country-wide Arbor Day (or month) to clean all the trash. The people don't know any different, because it's always been this way. I believe my OCD has lessened somewhat, and that's a good thing. ;)
The highlight of my day today (besides loving on the kids) was our visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. This prison was used by the Khmer Rouge/Pol Pot for interrogation, torture and killing after confession from the detainees were received and documented. The photographs and actual skulls were sickening, but our tour guide (a lady who lost most of her family during this time 1975-1979) created a realistic picture for us. Bodies of 14 individuals are still held in coffins on site. Similar to the Holocaust, the Pol Pot regime's objective was to purify the country and start new with the Khmer Rouge, thus killing all intellectuals, former leaders of organizations, babies that would be future threats for revenge, etc. And to end our experience? Handicapped men standing outside the museum-we all got "RayBans" in a multitude of colors! (I put the quotation marks around RayBan like I'd be signaling with my first two fingers)
After the museum, we ate our power bar lunch on our drive back to the orphanage. We handed out some more clothes again today. Underwear are a hot item in demand! Like a snake shedding its skin, we peeled off their sweaty, dirty clothes and replaced their moist body with dry items. Smiles!
Tomorrow is Easter Sunday, so Happy Easter to everyone reading this blog. Jum Riap Lia!!!
We started our day with games and puzzles, soccer and frisbee. Again we added more supplies to the medicine cabinet, so thank you to those that donated medical supplies. Additionally, I morphed into teacher mode and worked with a handful of kiddos eager to learn. We covered the alphabet, numbers, blends and the like. Anna took the initiative to read some pre-decodable books with kiddos as well. Kassie was up to her knees in sticky alphabet letters today, Jack was nonstop soccer boy, Nina delivered roofing parts for the coop, and Tabor wired away on the coop, frequently dodging the leaves.
The chicken coop roof is finished and now the hens can enjoy a shaded, protective environment. I hammered my thumb a few times, but by the end I had the hammering thing down. When we arrived to the farm today I noticed a large pile of what I thought was soil, but every other inch of the soil contained trash upon trash. My first assumption was that someone came and dumped their garbage in the middle of the night, but not possible because some of the boys sleep there in the hut. I asked Ritchie the director about the situation and he said that he ordered some soil to fill the large hole, and this is what you typically get. Trash is everywhere, and I found it ironic that near the city center many signs are posted highlighting the clean environment. Cambodia would literally need a country-wide Arbor Day (or month) to clean all the trash. The people don't know any different, because it's always been this way. I believe my OCD has lessened somewhat, and that's a good thing. ;)
The highlight of my day today (besides loving on the kids) was our visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. This prison was used by the Khmer Rouge/Pol Pot for interrogation, torture and killing after confession from the detainees were received and documented. The photographs and actual skulls were sickening, but our tour guide (a lady who lost most of her family during this time 1975-1979) created a realistic picture for us. Bodies of 14 individuals are still held in coffins on site. Similar to the Holocaust, the Pol Pot regime's objective was to purify the country and start new with the Khmer Rouge, thus killing all intellectuals, former leaders of organizations, babies that would be future threats for revenge, etc. And to end our experience? Handicapped men standing outside the museum-we all got "RayBans" in a multitude of colors! (I put the quotation marks around RayBan like I'd be signaling with my first two fingers)
After the museum, we ate our power bar lunch on our drive back to the orphanage. We handed out some more clothes again today. Underwear are a hot item in demand! Like a snake shedding its skin, we peeled off their sweaty, dirty clothes and replaced their moist body with dry items. Smiles!
Tomorrow is Easter Sunday, so Happy Easter to everyone reading this blog. Jum Riap Lia!!!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Cambodia Day 4
To market, to market, to buy 4 kilos of pig and chicken...literally.
Our day started with a trip to the Russian market, with the objective of purchasing potatoes, apples, watermelon, chicken, pork and veggies for a special Friday lunch at the orphanage. Preparation of this lunch made me intensely appreciate my bag of frozen green beans in my freezer at home. A bunch of us sat in a circle on the floor and de-beaned, sliced up mushrooms, and enjoyed smiles and giggles together. Lunch entails the orphanage kiddos sitting in a circle, patiently waiting for all to have their portion served, then showing down the delectable food. Nothing but smiles and smacking lips today. We were thanked and given multiple tight hugs. It felt so good sharing our love, even after witnessing heads being cut off of chickens and pig heads staring me down in the uniquely-fragranced market alleys.
After lunch I had the pleasure to sit with LisaMarie and the director, gaining information about the possible schooling the children could receive. To send one student to private school for one year, the total cost is $500, which includes their education year-round, uniforms, books and transportation. Only 3 of the 75+ students have been given this opportunity from overseas sponsorships. If anyone would like to sponsor a child's education, please contact LisaMarie at http://www.childrensglobalalliance.blogspot.com/. My goal is to sponsor Thong, a little boy that has truly grown on me this week. I call him my "lil Eminem."
Before we left the orphanage for the day, we distributed clothing. It was like a fashion show-we took snapshots of the kids in their new outfits (graciously donated during our medical/clothing drive at SCCS) as they walked out the door.
Star Kampuchea just dropped us off from our city tour, on which we enjoyed a scrumptious ear of street corn. We saw many monks, the national history museum, the Royal Palace, Independence Monument, the Olympic stadium, and Wat Phnom.
I do have to mention Lay (pronounced Ly), our tuk-tuk driver, for he is the most responsible, dedicated, loving Cambodian man that takes our security seriously. He will do anything for us, so we've been compensating him with Starbursts, Lifesavers, and leftover breakfast items such as fruit and bread. We. Love. Lay.
I can't wait to spend another day with the kids tomorrow. We will finish the chicken coop, practice reading, and who knows what else!
I am blessed. I am blessed. I am blessed.
Our day started with a trip to the Russian market, with the objective of purchasing potatoes, apples, watermelon, chicken, pork and veggies for a special Friday lunch at the orphanage. Preparation of this lunch made me intensely appreciate my bag of frozen green beans in my freezer at home. A bunch of us sat in a circle on the floor and de-beaned, sliced up mushrooms, and enjoyed smiles and giggles together. Lunch entails the orphanage kiddos sitting in a circle, patiently waiting for all to have their portion served, then showing down the delectable food. Nothing but smiles and smacking lips today. We were thanked and given multiple tight hugs. It felt so good sharing our love, even after witnessing heads being cut off of chickens and pig heads staring me down in the uniquely-fragranced market alleys.
After lunch I had the pleasure to sit with LisaMarie and the director, gaining information about the possible schooling the children could receive. To send one student to private school for one year, the total cost is $500, which includes their education year-round, uniforms, books and transportation. Only 3 of the 75+ students have been given this opportunity from overseas sponsorships. If anyone would like to sponsor a child's education, please contact LisaMarie at http://www.childrensglobalalliance.blogspot.com/. My goal is to sponsor Thong, a little boy that has truly grown on me this week. I call him my "lil Eminem."
Before we left the orphanage for the day, we distributed clothing. It was like a fashion show-we took snapshots of the kids in their new outfits (graciously donated during our medical/clothing drive at SCCS) as they walked out the door.
Star Kampuchea just dropped us off from our city tour, on which we enjoyed a scrumptious ear of street corn. We saw many monks, the national history museum, the Royal Palace, Independence Monument, the Olympic stadium, and Wat Phnom.
I do have to mention Lay (pronounced Ly), our tuk-tuk driver, for he is the most responsible, dedicated, loving Cambodian man that takes our security seriously. He will do anything for us, so we've been compensating him with Starbursts, Lifesavers, and leftover breakfast items such as fruit and bread. We. Love. Lay.
I can't wait to spend another day with the kids tomorrow. We will finish the chicken coop, practice reading, and who knows what else!
I am blessed. I am blessed. I am blessed.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Cambodia Day 3
Jack, Kassie, Anna, Nina and Tabor are really coming out of their shells on this trip. ;) It's awesome! We are having such a great experience together! We are creating many memories together that we'll be talking about for days after we get back.
Today I had the pleasure of stocking the orphanage's medicine cabinet, which was almost bare. We brought new underwear as well, and what a delight it was to witness the distribution...the kids were ecstatic as they patiently waited for their own new pair. Soon after, little tan bodies were running around in whitey tighties. ;)
Our group took the initiative to bathe all kiddos today-what a trip! We were covered in suds, water and lice shampoo. The SCCS girls got their first dose of de-licing and performed very well. Jack played frisbee for hours with the boys.
I was taken back by how much the kids already knew. (abc's, identifying pictures, blends, etc.) We worked through several sets of flashcards, identified colors, and flipped through sight words. I can't wait to bring books tomorrow!!!
Additionally, the sidewalk chalk and dry erase markers were a hit, but now I'm realizing that erasers and cleaner would have been something wise to bring.
Have you ever sliced a mango? Yep, looks much easier than it really is...but those eyes, those eyes, I just had to do it for her. The smiles that followed...priceless and oh so worth it.
Chicken coop, chicken coop, oh how we love you. We tore down your roof, we built you back up, and you look amazing. It was a group effort today, unwinding wires, winding them back up, hammering, sweeping, and talking to the chickens. Creating a safe, healthy environment for the hens will now reap eggs, eggs, eggs!
Hmmmmmm...teaching English in Cambodia, living here to volunteer on a regular basis...I am considering. ;)
Today I had the pleasure of stocking the orphanage's medicine cabinet, which was almost bare. We brought new underwear as well, and what a delight it was to witness the distribution...the kids were ecstatic as they patiently waited for their own new pair. Soon after, little tan bodies were running around in whitey tighties. ;)
Our group took the initiative to bathe all kiddos today-what a trip! We were covered in suds, water and lice shampoo. The SCCS girls got their first dose of de-licing and performed very well. Jack played frisbee for hours with the boys.
I was taken back by how much the kids already knew. (abc's, identifying pictures, blends, etc.) We worked through several sets of flashcards, identified colors, and flipped through sight words. I can't wait to bring books tomorrow!!!
Additionally, the sidewalk chalk and dry erase markers were a hit, but now I'm realizing that erasers and cleaner would have been something wise to bring.
Have you ever sliced a mango? Yep, looks much easier than it really is...but those eyes, those eyes, I just had to do it for her. The smiles that followed...priceless and oh so worth it.
Chicken coop, chicken coop, oh how we love you. We tore down your roof, we built you back up, and you look amazing. It was a group effort today, unwinding wires, winding them back up, hammering, sweeping, and talking to the chickens. Creating a safe, healthy environment for the hens will now reap eggs, eggs, eggs!
Hmmmmmm...teaching English in Cambodia, living here to volunteer on a regular basis...I am considering. ;)
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Cambodia Day 2
Manual Labor. ;)
To market, to market, to buy trash bags, gloves and boots...
We're getting pretty good at making deals in the marketplace. However, our sense of direction is not exactly up to par...but I dare you to enter the four story market in Phnom Penh and try to successfully exit from the same entrance you came. 12345, 12345...I keep counting my students' heads to keep track of them.
As we pulled in to the orphanage today, the kids and director knew we were coming to work on cleaning up the farm. "Thank you" is a common phrase around the orphanage when we're there. We snagged some of the kids who wanted to help. Anna rode via scooter and we rode in the CHA tuk-tuk. Today we worked on the "farm" of geese, chickens, hens, and soon-to-be pigs and ducks. The day was spent de-trashing, filling in holes, leveling grounds, and wiping our brows in the Cambodian sun. I have definitely left my blood, sweat and tears in Cambodia already. Before and after pics of the farm are simply amazing...we shared our love on the soil today. CGA will help purchase new chicken coop roofing. Sponsored pigs will be purchased soon as well! I will admit, there were times when I wanted to put down the shovel because I was light-headed and literally blinking out sweat droplets, but I kept going for the Cambodian kids. This is why we are here. After working on the farm, we went back to the orphanage for a little while. The kids are so happy with bright, smiling faces. What's not to love about a little Cambodian toddler splashing around in a tub/bath? Makes me miss my little Axel...
After some serious manual labor, we were blessed with a downpour on our tuk-tuk ride to the VIP Sport Club. The dunk in the cool pool was a blessing, and I have to admit that the fish foot massage was interesting to say the least.
I am still in awe over the economic situation here in Cambodia. Such a beautiful place, lush flora and happy people, but poverty-stricken is truly an understatement.
Okay...so we went down to the riverfront...different story. I have seen the wealthy part of Cambodia. How sad it is to know that two extremes exist just a couple miles apart. Government corruption became evident tonight.
To market, to market, to buy trash bags, gloves and boots...
We're getting pretty good at making deals in the marketplace. However, our sense of direction is not exactly up to par...but I dare you to enter the four story market in Phnom Penh and try to successfully exit from the same entrance you came. 12345, 12345...I keep counting my students' heads to keep track of them.
As we pulled in to the orphanage today, the kids and director knew we were coming to work on cleaning up the farm. "Thank you" is a common phrase around the orphanage when we're there. We snagged some of the kids who wanted to help. Anna rode via scooter and we rode in the CHA tuk-tuk. Today we worked on the "farm" of geese, chickens, hens, and soon-to-be pigs and ducks. The day was spent de-trashing, filling in holes, leveling grounds, and wiping our brows in the Cambodian sun. I have definitely left my blood, sweat and tears in Cambodia already. Before and after pics of the farm are simply amazing...we shared our love on the soil today. CGA will help purchase new chicken coop roofing. Sponsored pigs will be purchased soon as well! I will admit, there were times when I wanted to put down the shovel because I was light-headed and literally blinking out sweat droplets, but I kept going for the Cambodian kids. This is why we are here. After working on the farm, we went back to the orphanage for a little while. The kids are so happy with bright, smiling faces. What's not to love about a little Cambodian toddler splashing around in a tub/bath? Makes me miss my little Axel...
After some serious manual labor, we were blessed with a downpour on our tuk-tuk ride to the VIP Sport Club. The dunk in the cool pool was a blessing, and I have to admit that the fish foot massage was interesting to say the least.
I am still in awe over the economic situation here in Cambodia. Such a beautiful place, lush flora and happy people, but poverty-stricken is truly an understatement.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Cambodia Day 1
I am speechless. I am consumed with excitement. I am grateful. My eyes are opened.
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.
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!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
CLOTHING/MEDICAL SUPPLY DRIVE
Clothing/Medical Supply Drive for the Cambodian Hope Association Orphanage
CHILDREN’S GLOBAL ALLIANCE
Items Still Needed:
Baby Powder
Antiseptic
Neosporin
Band-aids
Toothpaste
Lice Shampoo
Hydrogen Peroxide
Calamine Lotion
Soap
Deodorant
Cotton Balls
Q-tips
Cold Medicine
Baby Wipes
Cotton Balls
Combs
Pedialyte Packets
Crayons and Coloring Books
Flip Flops of all sizes
Lightweight Cotton Clothes
T-shirts and Shorts
Children's Underwear
Picture Books and FlashCards
Bubbles
Chalk
Dry Erase Markers
Items Still Needed:
Baby Powder
Antiseptic
Neosporin
Band-aids
Toothpaste
Lice Shampoo
Hydrogen Peroxide
Calamine Lotion
Soap
Deodorant
Cotton Balls
Q-tips
Cold Medicine
Baby Wipes
Cotton Balls
Combs
Pedialyte Packets
Crayons and Coloring Books
Flip Flops of all sizes
Lightweight Cotton Clothes
T-shirts and Shorts
Children's Underwear
Picture Books and FlashCards
Bubbles
Chalk
Dry Erase Markers
SHARE.
THE.
LOVE.
Contact: Jen Gutmann
jgutmann@stonecreekschool.org
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY!
We appreciate you!
STARTS: April 4th 8am
ENDS: April 8th 8am
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
THANK YOU!
To the supporters of the Children's Global Alliance and the five local students pictured above who are heading to Cambodia, thank you for making our “Share the Love” fundraiser last Tuesday at Zacca Za an overwhelming success and a special thank-you to the Ferzacca family for hosting our event. We appreciate all of those individuals and businesses who generously donated toward sending us to work in an orphanage in Cambodia this April. Follow our journey at www.childrensglobalalliance.blogspot.com.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
"Share the Love" Fundraiser at Zacca Za
Lia Sophia Fundraiser
Thank you to all the lovely ladies that supported my upcoming Cambodia 2011 trip on Friday, Jan. 28th! I hosted a Lia Sophia jewelry and had a wonderful time with my friends.
40% in cash of all the jewelry sales from the Show was donated to the Children's Global Alliance for my trip to Cambodia in April! The event raised $322 for my trip! I am SO thankful!
Thank you, Tymbre, for your generosity!
40% in cash of all the jewelry sales from the Show was donated to the Children's Global Alliance for my trip to Cambodia in April! The event raised $322 for my trip! I am SO thankful!
Thank you, Tymbre, for your generosity!
If you'd like to order Lia Sophia jewelry, her contact info is 720.339.1036 and
TymbreJoy@yahoo.com.
TymbreJoy@yahoo.com.
Visit www.liasophia.com/TymbreJoy to view the catalogs.
Additionally, my friends Amy and Amanda signed up to host a party in February, and 10% of their party's proceeds will will be donated to my trip as well!
Additionally, my friends Amy and Amanda signed up to host a party in February, and 10% of their party's proceeds will will be donated to my trip as well!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Vail Daily
http://www.vaildaily.com/article/2011110129897
- Special to the Daily
- Special to the Daily
How you can help
The students are raising funds to go on their volunteer trip to Cambodia and are seeking donations. Tickets for their Feb. 1 fundraiser at ZaccaZa in Avon are $20 in advance, or $25 at the door. For more information about how to donate to the Cambodian Hope Association Orphanage or to buy tickets to the fundraiser, call Lisa-Marie Howell at 407-625-7111, or e-mail her at childrensglobalalliance@gmail.com.
Vail Valley students to help Cambodian orphans
Five local middle school students to travel to Cambodian orphanage
AVON, Colorado — Twelve-year-old Jack Skidmore believes he and four of his classmates will be doing their part to make the world a better place for at least 75 orphans this spring.
The students are heading to Cambodia with Stone Creek Charter School teacher Jen Gutmann and Lisa-Marie Howell, a local woman whose new nonprofit, the Children's Global Alliance, is making the trip possible.
Howell started the Children's Global Alliance last year in an effort to empower local children by “allowing them to make a hands-on difference in the lives of children in the world's most impoverished countries,” Howell wrote in her blog.
Howell returned from a trip to Cambodia last summer and knew her work there wasn't finished. She worked with an organization called Global Crossroads and saw many orphanages in the Phnom Penh area in need of resources and extra care. She chose the Cambodia Hope Association Orphanage as the one she'd return to this year.
Through some fundraising and a lot of hard work, Howell expects to help change some of the lives of the 75 children at the orphanage, as well as the lives of the five Stone Creek Charter School students who are coming along.
“I am not satisfied with just being a bystander in life, and never will be,” Howell wrote in her blog's “about me” section.
And neither are the students who made the cut to go on the trip. Jack Skidmore, 12, Kassie Heiner, 12, Anna Trombetta, 13, Tabor Whitney, 13, and Nina Ferzacca, 13, are students who are emotionally mature enough for the culture shock they will surely experience in Cambodia.
Gutmann and Howell didn't choose the students at random, nor did they accept every student who showed interest in going on the trip.
“The students had to submit an essay to be considered,” Howell said.
Gutmann and Howell ended up interviewing about 15 students. They wanted to be very careful in choosing the right kids for the trip — kids who could handle the experience and enrich the lives of the orphans by teaching them English and other important skills.
After the interviews, Gutmann and Howell decided to write down the names of the students they thought should go on the trip. They ended up writing down the same five names.
“These five students stood out,” Gutmann said.
The students are heading to Cambodia with Stone Creek Charter School teacher Jen Gutmann and Lisa-Marie Howell, a local woman whose new nonprofit, the Children's Global Alliance, is making the trip possible.
Howell started the Children's Global Alliance last year in an effort to empower local children by “allowing them to make a hands-on difference in the lives of children in the world's most impoverished countries,” Howell wrote in her blog.
Howell returned from a trip to Cambodia last summer and knew her work there wasn't finished. She worked with an organization called Global Crossroads and saw many orphanages in the Phnom Penh area in need of resources and extra care. She chose the Cambodia Hope Association Orphanage as the one she'd return to this year.
Through some fundraising and a lot of hard work, Howell expects to help change some of the lives of the 75 children at the orphanage, as well as the lives of the five Stone Creek Charter School students who are coming along.
“I am not satisfied with just being a bystander in life, and never will be,” Howell wrote in her blog's “about me” section.
And neither are the students who made the cut to go on the trip. Jack Skidmore, 12, Kassie Heiner, 12, Anna Trombetta, 13, Tabor Whitney, 13, and Nina Ferzacca, 13, are students who are emotionally mature enough for the culture shock they will surely experience in Cambodia.
Gutmann and Howell didn't choose the students at random, nor did they accept every student who showed interest in going on the trip.
“The students had to submit an essay to be considered,” Howell said.
Gutmann and Howell ended up interviewing about 15 students. They wanted to be very careful in choosing the right kids for the trip — kids who could handle the experience and enrich the lives of the orphans by teaching them English and other important skills.
After the interviews, Gutmann and Howell decided to write down the names of the students they thought should go on the trip. They ended up writing down the same five names.
“These five students stood out,” Gutmann said.
A world apart from the valley
While some of these five middle school students have traveled to places like Australia, South Korea and Hawaii, they are all trying to prepare themselves for a world they're sure they've never seen before.
Howell said she's doing her best to “paint a very clear picture of what we're walking into,” but she knows there will still be shocking moments for the students once they're in Cambodia.
“I think it's going to be a very interesting learning experience for everyone,” Howell said.
The experience is why the students are going. Anna thinks it's going to change her life.
“I've been given so much my whole life that I've never really seen that before, and I want to experience it and see what it's like,” Anna said.
For Jack, the canned food drives and clothing drives he's participated in locally are just barely scraping the surface of the help he's about to give in Cambodia. He said he's never truly gotten the chance to help someone — really help someone — and this is that chance.
“I just want to go there and help them out,” Jack said. “It's just really touching.”
The students realize they are only there for two weeks, but that's all the more reason they're putting everything they've got into this trip.
Howell said each student had to commit to raising $1,000 for the trip. Regardless of whether their parents could pay for the trip outright, Howell said the students are being put to work.
“I want them to really earn it — if you earn something you appreciate it 10 times more,” Howell said.
The students are going to be working hard at their largest fundraiser for the event, which happens Feb. 1 at ZaccaZa in Avon. There will be a silent auction, a raffle and food and drinks.
In addition to earning their way to Cambodia, the students are spending time learning anything they can about this far-away country.
Jack has been reading books about Cambodia that he got for Christmas and has learned important lessons about customs, such as respectful practices like taking your shoes off when you enter a temple or someone's home.
“The bottoms of your feet are known as the dirtiest part of the body — to show that to somebody is really disrespectful,” Jack said.
Howell said she's doing her best to “paint a very clear picture of what we're walking into,” but she knows there will still be shocking moments for the students once they're in Cambodia.
“I think it's going to be a very interesting learning experience for everyone,” Howell said.
The experience is why the students are going. Anna thinks it's going to change her life.
“I've been given so much my whole life that I've never really seen that before, and I want to experience it and see what it's like,” Anna said.
For Jack, the canned food drives and clothing drives he's participated in locally are just barely scraping the surface of the help he's about to give in Cambodia. He said he's never truly gotten the chance to help someone — really help someone — and this is that chance.
“I just want to go there and help them out,” Jack said. “It's just really touching.”
The students realize they are only there for two weeks, but that's all the more reason they're putting everything they've got into this trip.
Howell said each student had to commit to raising $1,000 for the trip. Regardless of whether their parents could pay for the trip outright, Howell said the students are being put to work.
“I want them to really earn it — if you earn something you appreciate it 10 times more,” Howell said.
The students are going to be working hard at their largest fundraiser for the event, which happens Feb. 1 at ZaccaZa in Avon. There will be a silent auction, a raffle and food and drinks.
In addition to earning their way to Cambodia, the students are spending time learning anything they can about this far-away country.
Jack has been reading books about Cambodia that he got for Christmas and has learned important lessons about customs, such as respectful practices like taking your shoes off when you enter a temple or someone's home.
“The bottoms of your feet are known as the dirtiest part of the body — to show that to somebody is really disrespectful,” Jack said.
Adjusting
The hardest part about the trip is going to be the time away from family members, according to the five students — and that's part of the reason Gutmann and Howell chose them.
“You could feel the love they have for their family,” Howell said. “That's a testament to their maturity.”
While the students will have to get used to being extremely hot — they'll be in Cambodia in April when temperatures and humidity are the highest of the year — and they'll have to get used to eating simple foods like rice, they're still going to bring some comforts from home to help get them through these two weeks.
Howell told them to bring snacks like Power Bars just in case the food isn't so hot.
Tabor wants to bring a soccer ball and teach the children how to play, and Jack plans on bringing along a backgammon board that he wants to leave at the orphanage.
They know they'll see conditions that will be hard to accept — it's a good thing they're bringing plenty of sunglasses to hide their tears.
Kassie said it will be sad to see what these Cambodian orphans are missing out on in life, but Howell suspects that it will be the American kids who realize they too have been missing out on important lessons in life — that material things aren't everything, for example.
“I see the girls and guys around here and they don't really (appreciate) what they have, and I want to change me as a person to not be like that,” Nina said.
Community Editor Lauren Glendenning can be reached at 970-748-2983 or lglendenning@vaildaily.com.
“You could feel the love they have for their family,” Howell said. “That's a testament to their maturity.”
While the students will have to get used to being extremely hot — they'll be in Cambodia in April when temperatures and humidity are the highest of the year — and they'll have to get used to eating simple foods like rice, they're still going to bring some comforts from home to help get them through these two weeks.
Howell told them to bring snacks like Power Bars just in case the food isn't so hot.
Tabor wants to bring a soccer ball and teach the children how to play, and Jack plans on bringing along a backgammon board that he wants to leave at the orphanage.
They know they'll see conditions that will be hard to accept — it's a good thing they're bringing plenty of sunglasses to hide their tears.
Kassie said it will be sad to see what these Cambodian orphans are missing out on in life, but Howell suspects that it will be the American kids who realize they too have been missing out on important lessons in life — that material things aren't everything, for example.
“I see the girls and guys around here and they don't really (appreciate) what they have, and I want to change me as a person to not be like that,” Nina said.
Community Editor Lauren Glendenning can be reached at 970-748-2983 or lglendenning@vaildaily.com.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
CAMBODIA 2011 FUNDRAISER-hope to see you there!
Children’s Global Alliance Fundraiser
Please come support this Vail Valley based
non-profit group in our efforts to send five Middle
School students from Stone Creek Charter School in
Avon, CO to work in an orphanage in Cambodia this Spring
When- Tuesday February 1st, 2011 from 5:00-9:00
$20 in advance $25 at the door
Where- Zacca Za in Avon, Co
What to wear? The color red to show your support
For advance tickets call (407) 625-7111