Our First Day

Wow. Our first day was incredible. The team went out to explore the neighborhood and had breakfast at a local eatery. We were the only Barangs and the food was an authentic introduction to Khmer cuisine. We even picked up some rolls at a store front bakery. We explored the nearby shopping plaza and did a bit of shopping before heading back to our hotel for a quick nap (still recovering) and lunch.

Then we got to visit the kids. So beautiful. We went to the Asia's Hope School and said hello to each of the classes, even singing to each other in one class. Then recess! These kids just swarmed our sweaty selves with unqualified gladness. We had tried to learn some names and were able to connect one on one with a few. It was a mild day for Cambodians but I must have sweated 2 liters easy. (My pants were soaked) But I had so much fun playing with the kids. Then we walked the kids home to Prek Eng 2, the house sponsored by Central Vineyard. Traffic is fairly terrifying as there are no stops signs, signal lights or turn lanes. But the kids make the short trek to school and back as a family each day.

We were treated to local delicacies such as fresh coconut with a straw and fried banana chips. We played more with the kids and they showed us their home and the new puppies that they are raising. We had dinner with the home director and his wife at the orphan home. They have been so hospitable and kind. We said goodbye to the kids who continued to hug and squeeze us. They had serious fun identifying how we are different. Now it's back to the hotel to rehydrate and rest up.