A beautiful and lazy Sunday afternoon in Thailand. A year ago who would have thought I would be here in this hot and humid paradise. The rest of this week went quite well. Friday night I spent the night at the orphanage again. It was Scout Day on Friday so the older children set up tents and slept in the field. Four other volunteers and Idid the same. We, however, had an enclosed tent while the children slept under a tarp strung over sticks. The night was filled with numerous festivities...Thai dancing--that we of course joined in on, many songs, skits, games, etc. It was quite enjoyable. The volunteers and I went to bed quite early--about ten thirty, while the children stayed up until about twelve or so. We then slept in until 7, but kids were up at 5 doing exercises and cleaning up the camp. I am hoping to stay at the orphanage at least once a week while the kids are still there. On March 10 their exams begin and then the next week they start their vacation. The majority of the children have family so they will head home for their vacation, and the ones who dont have anyone, I believe, will stay at the orphanage.

These children amaze me every day. I hope my constant rambling about how much they are changing me and how much I truly love them does not get old. I taught some of the children the "I love you" sign--pinky, pointer finger, and thumb up and the middle two fingers down. My father and I used to make this sign to one another quite often when I was a kid. Now, these children make it towards me and I to them. They smile and yell "Lenae" and show me the sign. Hands made into the shapes of hearts are also quite frequently seen around the orphanage. So quick to love and they never look back.

They have faces of innocents and love. I never truly realized how beautiful children are. Yes, I do like kids and have worked with them before, but I think I always forget how much I love them and how beautiful and precious they truly are. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child is a humbling and eye opening experience.

Thailand is still quite beautiful and extremely hot. However, Friday night while we were camping at the orphanage it began to rain--in the dry season! Another volunteer and I were quite confused at first because it felt as if our entire body was tingling and we thought we han eaten something wrong. But, once we realized it was rain coming through our tent, laughter began and soon a bit of fear set in..."what if we get soaked?" " this tent isnt water proof!" "dont touch the sides of the tent" etc. etc. etc.

I have talked about the rides to the orphanage in the morning...filled with a green that I have never seen before covered by the rolling mist and random banana trees to fill in the gaps. I have not, however, talked about the sunsets. They are like a dream. Something you would see on a postcard or as a screensaver or something. Nothing you would expect to see in real life. But, there it is. Colors the sky has never shown me before. Bright red, deep pink, burning orange and a royal purple. Palm trees over the sun as it sets into the green fields. I dont want to forget it.

I know I havent put pictures up yet, and I not sure if I will get the chance before I leave. So, my words will have to paint the pictures for now. Again, I hope this entry finds you all in great happiness. I love you all very much and you are greatly missed. I will hug the kids for you and soak up the sun for you as well. All my love.