End of July

Where did this month go.  Seems like it was just starting.  So much has happened -- a lot of work, a lot of fun, and a lot of new friends.  Sounds like the perfect mix to me.  In two days, it is time to go back to Maesai for another Visa run.  Rules and regs have recently changed so just when you think you've got it under control, ba-a-m, another bump, so back to Maesai and an 8-hour bus ride for a few minutes worth of red tape.  Have to physically leave Thailand, walk across a bridge to Myanmar to get my Visa validated, and then back across bridge to Thailand to get a new stamp.  Hopefully this will be the last time I have to do this as the Foundation I am working with is still trying to get me on Thai Visa which will give me another full year.  Otherwise, come October, I have to get out of dodge, and those contingency plans are not in my wheelhouse currently.  So, here's to all the things that did go right this month and yea for all the wonderful new friends and good times.  I am happy!

My new friend James Michael

Good friends Maykin, Jo and Fon

Cheers!

Jennie and Frances McGuire with Jo and Maykin

Jennie, Maykin and Frances

Party @ The Meeting Room 

May and Jam

And then some, oh my!

Kalisha Thailand, performing her art

Kalisha and her finished piece

Now if you've got to work, not too shabby!

Lotus PSK Hotel

Staff of Lotus Hotel learning how to give "service excellent"

English class -- aerobics class, hm-m-m

a new teacher is born, my friend Kung

My friends in Lamphun, Som, Ning, Kung & Gay

Lamphun class

Ladies of Lamphun

 

Have been having the best time teaching so many different and interesting students since I came to Thailand.  We started new session tonight in Lamphun with old friends and many new ones.  Best thing about Thai students is that they are excited and nervous to be learning English no matter what their skill level is.  They are happy to have native speaker take time to talk with them and help them improve their skills, and because they are so inspiring, they make me want to help even more.  Wish all students had their enthusiasm and interest in learning -- I think that is one of big differences, and it makes me feel not only needed, but truly worthwhile.