THE HONEYMOONERS

Remember the last day of school, smiling from ear to ear, text books and trapper keepers tossed until next year. Well, today was our last day at Ban Prao Neau Primary School in Nong Khai and it wasn't like that at all. In fact, it was more like the last day of summer camp (not quite b/c it IS still school), but we were deeply saddened to leave the kids and the staff. Although we were there only two weeks, we were treated like family from Day One. Whether we took the yellow bus or rode our bikes (about 3.5miles), school was something to look forward to everyday. The love from the kids, their attention and desire to learn English, and their smiles will never be forgotten. Our experiences each day left us wanting to do more. And on Thursday, when a party was held in our honor, we exchanged keepsakes and gifts in a celebration that was truly unique. While we sat in the middle of all the students, a temple-like offering was burned for us, which was handmade from banana-leaves, flowers, candles, etc (we can show you video for a better visual). The staff held our hands and shoulders and blessed us and prayed for us for a happy life, good luck and many babies. Then, we were showered with cards that were presented one by one by each student, pre-k thru 6th grade. And then, we were adorned with handmade flower necklaces and bracelets and lastly, EACH student tied a white string on our wrists. So yes, we both currently have about 140 white string bracelts on each of our arms. It symbolizes many things - marriage, happiness, luck and also a good-bye tradition. In exchange, all we were able to do was buy them some things - a new soccer ball, an animated world map, about 20 Thai-English books, some stuffed animals, stickers and other supplies, as well as a few presents for the staff. Right now, it feels like we did what we were supposed to do, and maybe with time, we will better realize how truly special our Thai Experience was.

In addition to the teaching, we also experienced some local events and cultural traditions. As you can see in the pictures (link attached), one afternooon we spent a few hours giving out bags of rice to those in need. This event happens only once a year, and the people line up in huge lines with tickets to claim their bag of rice (one bag per person) and a few second-hand pieces of clothing. The elderly were helped by their kids and grandkids so that they could get their alloted bag. We also celebrated with Pei Lan, the matriarch of the organization that we are here volunteering for, the half-year Chinese New Year. On the half-year, offerings are made in front of each spirit house for the ancestors. A ridiculous amount of food - duck, chicken, rice, soda, but also paper clothes and money are burned for them as well. Again, quite an experience.

Lastly, we want to congratulate our good friend Reg, who recently finished 23rd in the 2006 World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. Couldn't have happened to a better guy, and we wish him luck in his turn to a professional.


Click here for some pics from our time in Nong Khai