A time filled with mixed emotions. It was absolutely amazing to wrap gifts of soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and encouraging notes to the children of the Kampot village and see their faces when they received them! We had four parties in 5 days. The first was the delicious family Christmas beef barbeque with COLD pops on the 19th. The second party was for Lucky’s birthday on the 20th. We had sparklers, curry and a giant cake fight! The third party was Courtney’s, one of the class translators, birthday party where we had noodle soup, fruit cake and a huge dance party! The last party was THE CHRISTMAS Party with 300 of the 700 village people at our place. There was the setup with a tent, chairs, coconut shaving for curry, a chicken massacre, and last minute preparation. At the party there was singing, the dance routine Thomas and I had to make and then teach, the Christmas story, a chicken curry dinner, the Jesus movie, a gift exchange and another dance party.
Those are all awesome blessings, yet it has definitely been hard to be away for Christmas. It has been a reminder of what is important during this season and what I truly miss from home. I mostly miss my family, my friends, and the American traditions. It is great to see family pictures of the gathering. I will be thrilled to be there next year! I didn’t think I would miss the typical traditions, but not hearing Christmas music on the radio, not being cold and not seeing lights has made me excited to have Christmas at home again next year.
The hardest part by far is missing people and seeing your lovely faces all chilled and white! My Cambodian family is a fantastic stand in and I love them dearly with Vuthy, Chandia, Lucky, Yo (yes his name is YO)ed you , Esther, Petra, Rowat, and Vineth. I will miss them…hence the mixed emotions.
Everyone at home…..HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Feel blessed especially for your food choices and donatos! I am blessed to be in Cambodia. I am blessed to be on the World Race and I am blessed to have you as a part of my life!!
