Sam and I arrived in Shanghai yesterday afternoon. The weather is beautiful...a bit on the smoggy side, but it's what I expected with over 20 million people living here.
Yesterday, after settling in at the hotel, we all ventured out to explore Nanjing Lu, Shanghai's foremost shopping street. The group (Sam's co-workers and me) did a bit of shopping... mainly "window" shopping and enjoyed strolling along the street with throngs of others. The street ended at area called "The Bund". The Bund is at the heart of what used to be colonial Shanghai. Today it's a nice place to take in views of the Huangpu River...old colonial buildings on one bank and some of the world's tallest buildings on the other. Since there's a tunnel that transports you under the river, we were able to enjoy both views.
Today, I ventured out on my own once again and am happy to say that I actually got to enjoy the sight I set out to see. I took a taxi to the Yu Gardens and Bazaar. The gardens were amazing...quite magical to have such a peaceful place in the middle of the chaos of a bazaar and looming skyscrapers. I hope my pictures capture the calm, beauty, and art of a perfectly balanced landscape. After savoring the calm, I bravely entered the bazaar armed with my calculator. I have to admit that though bargaining is a real stretch for me, I quite enjoyed the experience. I'm sure I still paid way too much for my treasures, but at least I participated in the cultural ritual that was expected of me.
Getting home was not near the adventure I'd had in Shenzen, yet it was not without a challenge. Taking a taxi from the hotel in the morning had been a piece of cake with the help of the hotel staff. Flagging one down for the return trip...NOT so easy! First, I had to figure out where they would stop, because as a foreigner I didn't seem to be able to get the same response from the side of the street as the locals did. Once I found an actual taxi stop, my intuition told me not to go with the drivers that were wanting to bargain for the price. Thankfully, an English speaking tourist filled me in on the different taxi colors and which could be trusted to be fair. It wasn't long after that lesson, that I hopped in a blue taxi (as opposed to red) and was safely on my way home with plenty of time to blog and check email! It's a wonderful life to be on such a foreign adventure, yet to also be able to come home to family and friends each evening via the internet.
My love you! Thanks for checking in with me and for reading these ramblings :)
Friday, April 25, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Planes, Trains and.....
Well actually, there were no planes today, but there were ferry boats, underground metro trains, buses, and taxis. Today was my first day to navigate China on my own and let me assure you, it was quite an adventure! First off, let me begin by sharing that we are in Shekou...a suburb of Shenzen...an hour ferry ride from Hong Kong. Since Sam was working all day, I decided that I'd jump on the ferry and explore Hong Kong. After all, since Hong Kong had had a long history with Great Britain, language wasn't going to be a problem...Right? Wrong!
I won't say that it was a major problem, but it certainly was a challenge. However, the real problem in my plans occurred shortly after arriving at the tourist information office and learning that the ferry I'd traveled on to get to Kowloon (the island across from Hong Kong) didn't have a return schedule that would meet my needs. I'd prearranged with Sam to meet up with him no later than 6:00 and since I didn't have an international cell phone (something I'll for sure have on our next trip), I had no way of contacting him to let him know that I'd be an hour late. Soooo... the rest of my time was spent trying to return to Shekou.
First, I had to learn how to navigate the MTR in order to get to the travel agency that would sell me a bus ticket. With the help of many kind citizens from all over the world, I finally made it to their office. The plan was to buy my ticket, learn the departure location, and then resume my sightseeing excursion, taking in all the sights possible before I had to leave. The tourist information office had provided me with an itinerary that included historic markets, a beautiful garden, and a temple.
Again, best laid plans! The travel agency I'd been sent to wasn't able to sell me the bus ticket I needed. I wasn't quite sure what to do at this point. I considered crying, but that really wouldn't have accomplished much, so I decided to head back to the tourist office. This time, I'm pleased to report that I navigated the MTR almost like a local (Not! but better than before...I think I made it back to the office without any help)
I explained my predicament to a different tourist authority this time, and after bouncing around a few ideas, was sent to another travel agency to purchase a ticket for a different bus. Let me tell you, it was a real step in faith to head out to that office. At this point I'd scratched all sightseeing and decided that I just wanted to get back to the hotel... the sooner, the better!
Fortunately, buying the ticket was not a problem at all this time. In fact, I got lucky and was able to board the bus right away. It was a pleasant 1 hour ride back to mainland China, and the best part was I was able to see some sights I wouldn't have seen if I'd returned on the ferry. Once I got back to Shenzen, I had no problem catching a taxi back to the hotel.
All in all, it was a good day...Not the day I'd planned, but good nevertheless. With out a doubt, the best part was all the conversations I'd had with all the good Samaritans who took time out of their busy day to help me find my way.
P.S. We just returned from a lovely Chinese dinner hosted by the staff at the Shenzen office. The hospitality extended to us made us feel so welcome and the food was delicious! We leave for Shanghai tomorrow morning.
I won't say that it was a major problem, but it certainly was a challenge. However, the real problem in my plans occurred shortly after arriving at the tourist information office and learning that the ferry I'd traveled on to get to Kowloon (the island across from Hong Kong) didn't have a return schedule that would meet my needs. I'd prearranged with Sam to meet up with him no later than 6:00 and since I didn't have an international cell phone (something I'll for sure have on our next trip), I had no way of contacting him to let him know that I'd be an hour late. Soooo... the rest of my time was spent trying to return to Shekou.
First, I had to learn how to navigate the MTR in order to get to the travel agency that would sell me a bus ticket. With the help of many kind citizens from all over the world, I finally made it to their office. The plan was to buy my ticket, learn the departure location, and then resume my sightseeing excursion, taking in all the sights possible before I had to leave. The tourist information office had provided me with an itinerary that included historic markets, a beautiful garden, and a temple.
Again, best laid plans! The travel agency I'd been sent to wasn't able to sell me the bus ticket I needed. I wasn't quite sure what to do at this point. I considered crying, but that really wouldn't have accomplished much, so I decided to head back to the tourist office. This time, I'm pleased to report that I navigated the MTR almost like a local (Not! but better than before...I think I made it back to the office without any help)
I explained my predicament to a different tourist authority this time, and after bouncing around a few ideas, was sent to another travel agency to purchase a ticket for a different bus. Let me tell you, it was a real step in faith to head out to that office. At this point I'd scratched all sightseeing and decided that I just wanted to get back to the hotel... the sooner, the better!
Fortunately, buying the ticket was not a problem at all this time. In fact, I got lucky and was able to board the bus right away. It was a pleasant 1 hour ride back to mainland China, and the best part was I was able to see some sights I wouldn't have seen if I'd returned on the ferry. Once I got back to Shenzen, I had no problem catching a taxi back to the hotel.
All in all, it was a good day...Not the day I'd planned, but good nevertheless. With out a doubt, the best part was all the conversations I'd had with all the good Samaritans who took time out of their busy day to help me find my way.
P.S. We just returned from a lovely Chinese dinner hosted by the staff at the Shenzen office. The hospitality extended to us made us feel so welcome and the food was delicious! We leave for Shanghai tomorrow morning.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Notice something new?
You may have noticed a few changes like the removal of my favorite Thailand picture. That was a mistake! I've tried my best to correct it, but these programs definitely have a mind of their own. After literally hours of messing with it, I'm ready to put up the white flag and go with the old saying, if you can't beat 'em, join 'em ! In its place is a slide show from Photo Bucket and I'm trying out a whole new template. I figured if I'm being forced to change, why not go all the way. Enjoy!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Not What I Expected
Recently, Sam and I visited about how easy it's been for us to slip into a non tourist role as we live life here in Bangkok. That's not necessarily bad, but there's so much to see and our days or years are numbered. So we pulled out the tour books once again and renewed our resolve to continue seeing and sharing the sights that surround us.
One local sight that's been on our list to see is the Royal Barge Museum. We had had a glimpse of these magnificent barges this past fall as we watched a televised annual procession of them float down the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, in order to offer royal kathin robes to the monks in the temple. Believe me, after viewing this royal procession with all its pomp and circumstance, I could tell that these "boats" were truly a treasured part of Thailand's cultural heritage and could only imagine viewing them up close.
If you'd like to see them up close, take a look at the Royal Barge Museum album on our Shutterfly account -
http://traceyandsamsthaiadventure.shutterfly.com/
They were as beautiful as I'd expected, but what I want to write about is what I'd not expected.
What I'd not expected is to be guided through winding narrow alleys of a slum in order to get to the museum. I couldn't believe that we were actually following this sleepy local resident (bum) who had been resting on a table near the fading museum sign where our driver had dropped us off. In fact, the whole time we were trekking behind him, I kept thinking there has got to be some mistake.... Surely, Thailand's royal treasures can't be located here! I was even wondering if this was some sort of scam... To be really honest, I was sort of scared. This just wasn't what I'd expected.
Well, obviously it wasn't a scam, and we were led right to the door of the museum. After viewing the barges, we headed back through the slum to meet our driver....this time without the benefit of a guide. As we were walking, I couldn't help but think how appropriate that the poorest of the poor should be the keepers of these royal riches. After all, isn't that what heaven will be like?...the last will be first and the first will be last...Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.
...Just wanted to share how thankful I am for the opportunity to have been reminded once again that life's treasures have nothing to do with barges or any other "thing", royal or otherwise, but instead life's real treasures are people...even people disguised as bums!
One local sight that's been on our list to see is the Royal Barge Museum. We had had a glimpse of these magnificent barges this past fall as we watched a televised annual procession of them float down the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, in order to offer royal kathin robes to the monks in the temple. Believe me, after viewing this royal procession with all its pomp and circumstance, I could tell that these "boats" were truly a treasured part of Thailand's cultural heritage and could only imagine viewing them up close.
If you'd like to see them up close, take a look at the Royal Barge Museum album on our Shutterfly account -
http://traceyandsamsthaiadventure.shutterfly.com/
They were as beautiful as I'd expected, but what I want to write about is what I'd not expected.
What I'd not expected is to be guided through winding narrow alleys of a slum in order to get to the museum. I couldn't believe that we were actually following this sleepy local resident (bum) who had been resting on a table near the fading museum sign where our driver had dropped us off. In fact, the whole time we were trekking behind him, I kept thinking there has got to be some mistake.... Surely, Thailand's royal treasures can't be located here! I was even wondering if this was some sort of scam... To be really honest, I was sort of scared. This just wasn't what I'd expected.
Well, obviously it wasn't a scam, and we were led right to the door of the museum. After viewing the barges, we headed back through the slum to meet our driver....this time without the benefit of a guide. As we were walking, I couldn't help but think how appropriate that the poorest of the poor should be the keepers of these royal riches. After all, isn't that what heaven will be like?...the last will be first and the first will be last...Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.
...Just wanted to share how thankful I am for the opportunity to have been reminded once again that life's treasures have nothing to do with barges or any other "thing", royal or otherwise, but instead life's real treasures are people...even people disguised as bums!
The Icing on the Cake!
Three weeks ago yesterday, I began what has continued to be an amazing experience with the Thai health care system. I've been completely checked from head to toe and am thankful to report that I have a clean bill of health. However, I just have to share the icing on the cake from this whole experience. It was when the endocrinologist called me on a national holiday to report that the biopsy of my thyroid nodule turned out just fine. I couldn't believe it! First of all, I expected a call from his office staff rather than a personal call from him, and secondly, since there was no urgency in the report, I would have totally understood waiting until after the holiday to call. Anyway, enough about that...just glad it's behind me and that it was so painlessly easy for a medical procrastinator like me to catch up on all those important screenings!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Never in my wildest dreams...
Recently, I've been blown away by just what's possible these days. For example, a few days ago I had my first "virtual" babysitting job. Let me explain...Vanessa had come home with Riley and to her dismay, there were no convenient parking spaces near her apartment. She not only had to unload Riley and all the baby "stuff", but also an ice cream birthday cake for Trey...too much to carry in one load. She was nervous about leaving Riley in the apartment alone in order to go back to the car for the cake, so being the creative girlie that she is, this is what she did-- She called me using her cell phone as she has an international phone plan. Next, she turned on the computer and Skyped me. After, being sure that Riley (secured in her car seat) was visible to me, she left the apartment locking the door behind her and taking her cell phone with her as we were still connected. Sooo...The end result was she was able to hear me talking and singing to Riley...Riley was never out of my sight and could hear her Grandma singing her favorite songs (Vanessa was coaching me on what to sing), and Vanessa was assured that she was O.K. for the few minutes it took her to return to the car. Amazing!
The next experience that really got my attention was my trip to the doctor's yesterday. You are not going to believe this but I promise you every detail of it is true! After being here since July, I decided that it was time to establish a relationship with a family doctor. Those of you who know me well, know this is not my favorite thing to do. In fact, I can be creatively negligent when it comes to having routine well woman check ups. Anyway, my friend, Gini, made an appointment for me to meet her doctor. The appointment was at 9:00, and I figured after a brief consult, I'd be directed to an appointment desk in order to schedule a time for an initial check up. Wrong!
The short version is I left the doctor's office, which is in a local hospital, at 4:00 PM.
The long version is nothing short of miraculous! First of all, I began my appointment at 8:45 by completing a minimal amount of paperwork and having my blood pressure, height and weight checked. Next, I met with the doctor at her desk while she completed a family history and discussed my health needs. After that, I was sent to the lab for routine blood, urine... tests. I then returned to the doctor's office, and she performed the most complete physical I've ever had. Following this exam, I was personally escorted to various offices within the hospital for a mammogram, chest x-ray, bone density measurement, ultrasound (breasts, thyroid, upper abdomen), and an EKG. After a brief break for lunch at one of the many restaurants within the hospital (I chose Starbucks), I met with the doctor again. This time, she shared the results of all the tests that had been run earlier. The good news is I'm healthy, though she wanted me to see an endocrinologist because I have a nodule on my thyroid that she'd like checked out. So off I go to visit with the endocrinologist! He takes a look at the ultrasound pictures, lab reports, and examines me. He assures me that because my thyroid is functioning properly, there's probably no problem, but just to be on the safe side he schedules a biopsy for next week. Well, I finished my "initial" visit with 2 more exams to be completed that afternoon and 2 more to be completed next week...all of them arranged by my doctor. A gynecologist completed a well woman check up for me and I ended my day with a trip to the eye doctor's office. Can you believe all that with one simple 9:00 AM appointment? One more "blow me away" detail of the day was upon checking out, I was given completed insurance forms and a detailed print out of all the procedures and exams that had been performed. You might be wondering about the cost. I know I was! Well, the total for all the physician visits and lab tests was $747.00. No wonder Thailand is becoming a medical tourism hot spot!
The next experience that really got my attention was my trip to the doctor's yesterday. You are not going to believe this but I promise you every detail of it is true! After being here since July, I decided that it was time to establish a relationship with a family doctor. Those of you who know me well, know this is not my favorite thing to do. In fact, I can be creatively negligent when it comes to having routine well woman check ups. Anyway, my friend, Gini, made an appointment for me to meet her doctor. The appointment was at 9:00, and I figured after a brief consult, I'd be directed to an appointment desk in order to schedule a time for an initial check up. Wrong!
The short version is I left the doctor's office, which is in a local hospital, at 4:00 PM.
The long version is nothing short of miraculous! First of all, I began my appointment at 8:45 by completing a minimal amount of paperwork and having my blood pressure, height and weight checked. Next, I met with the doctor at her desk while she completed a family history and discussed my health needs. After that, I was sent to the lab for routine blood, urine... tests. I then returned to the doctor's office, and she performed the most complete physical I've ever had. Following this exam, I was personally escorted to various offices within the hospital for a mammogram, chest x-ray, bone density measurement, ultrasound (breasts, thyroid, upper abdomen), and an EKG. After a brief break for lunch at one of the many restaurants within the hospital (I chose Starbucks), I met with the doctor again. This time, she shared the results of all the tests that had been run earlier. The good news is I'm healthy, though she wanted me to see an endocrinologist because I have a nodule on my thyroid that she'd like checked out. So off I go to visit with the endocrinologist! He takes a look at the ultrasound pictures, lab reports, and examines me. He assures me that because my thyroid is functioning properly, there's probably no problem, but just to be on the safe side he schedules a biopsy for next week. Well, I finished my "initial" visit with 2 more exams to be completed that afternoon and 2 more to be completed next week...all of them arranged by my doctor. A gynecologist completed a well woman check up for me and I ended my day with a trip to the eye doctor's office. Can you believe all that with one simple 9:00 AM appointment? One more "blow me away" detail of the day was upon checking out, I was given completed insurance forms and a detailed print out of all the procedures and exams that had been performed. You might be wondering about the cost. I know I was! Well, the total for all the physician visits and lab tests was $747.00. No wonder Thailand is becoming a medical tourism hot spot!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
American Idol comes to Thailand!
Needless to say, I was thrilled when I discovered a new TV channel this week... one that has shows like American Idol and Grey's Anatomy! Sam almost had me convinced that CNN and the History Channel were about the best available as I really hadn't taken any time to explore the channels for myself. I guess I'm not that much of a TV watcher. Anyway, his downfall was tuning into the History Channel during dinner last night. They were doing a show on the history of toilet paper. I couldn't believe it, but he was just sitting there watching them talk about wiping...taking it all in without giving much thought to the fact that we were eating. You know you're a History Channel junkie when you can watch something like that without thinking that it's a bit of an odd choice for the occasion! Well, that's when the search for another channel began and I'm glad to report my entertainment world has grown by leaps and bounds. Tonight we watched American Idol and plan on watching it again tomorrow. It was great... especially the performance of the song, "I'm Glad to be an American." I've always been touched by those lyrics, but even more so living outside of America. I truly am glad to be an American and am also very glad to have a new channel..one with American Idol :)
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
New Pictures on Shutterfly!
Now that I'm back in Bangkok, I have no excuse for not writing...well, with the exception of having over 3 months of catching up to do! Believe me, I'm working on it. For those of you who know me well, you know how I love to have all my ducks in a row. However, it's been kind of challenging lining the ducks up when I'm still trying to figure out where I am and if it's O.K. to drink the water! (I'm not kidding...I have to think before swallowing) Anyway, with setting priorities and all, I've decided it would be best to get the pictures downloaded and posted first. I hope you still remember how to click on the Shutterfly link to the left of my page :)
Saturday, February 23, 2008
And then there was Riley Lynn....
All of us have had those moments...moments when we know without a shadow of a doubt that we are forever changed. On February 15th at 6:34 PM, Riley Lynn, my first granddaughter was born, and I can honestly say, the blessing of this precious baby has forever changed me. I have a new identity..."Grandma, Mema, MiMi, Nana...." Whatever this princess of our Heavenly Father chooses to call me will forever be music to my ears!
It has been my absolute privilege and joy to join Vanessa and her family as they snuggle little Riley and juggle life's demands at all hours of the night and day without thought of much else. Only a few days ago there was world travelling, presidential campaigns, American Idol....and then there was Riley Lynn. Isn't it amazing how true love can consume all our needs, wants, and narrow the focus of all our thoughts and energy! Yes, I'm head over heels in love once again. First, there was Sam, next came Vanessa, and now Riley Lynn. My heart is full and over flowing.
It has been my absolute privilege and joy to join Vanessa and her family as they snuggle little Riley and juggle life's demands at all hours of the night and day without thought of much else. Only a few days ago there was world travelling, presidential campaigns, American Idol....and then there was Riley Lynn. Isn't it amazing how true love can consume all our needs, wants, and narrow the focus of all our thoughts and energy! Yes, I'm head over heels in love once again. First, there was Sam, next came Vanessa, and now Riley Lynn. My heart is full and over flowing.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Too Long!
Question- How do you know it's been too long since the last post?
Answer- When you can't even remember your login or password!
Sorry it's been so long! It's not that I haven't had an opportunity or encouragement, it's just that my brain ...heart ...has been on overload. For those of you who might not know, I didn't return to Thailand as planned on the 28th because Vanessa began experiencing pregnancy problems that indicated that our precious Jayde Lynn may be coming earlier than expected. Those problems now seem under control, but unfortunately Vanessa is currently fighting the flu...no fun under normal circumstances, but especially no fun while pregnant. The intial decision to delay my departure was a no brainer...but how long to stay has been a bit more challenging as Sam and I both were both at peace with the decision for me to return to Thailand and then come back to Texas shortly after the birth. I guess if I've learned anything this year, it's that plans really are made to be changed!
Consequently, my New's Year's resolution is to live in the moment more dependent on seeking God's purpose and pausing to experience his joy..to be flexible...striving to calm the chatter in my mind and to actively and expectantly listen to the Holy Spirit's direction after lifting my prayers to God.
Over the past 2 weeks, it has become clear that Vanessa, Sam, and I all need me to be positioned for a quick response....a 27 hour plane ride just doesn't qualify as quick!
So until Jayde Lynn arrives and Vanessa is comfortable in her new role as a mommy, this mommy will making her home in Corpus Christi with frequent visits to the best B&B's Katy has to offer :) I'll never be able to thank Tim and Terri, Steve and Sue, David and Phyllis, and Cecil and Cheryl enough for their gracious hospitality, loving encouragement, and total support. How blessed I am!
Honestly, I'll try to do a better job at keeping in touch, but just in case I continue to suffer from blogger's block, feel free to call my cell 832-248-5352. I'd love to visit.
Answer- When you can't even remember your login or password!
Sorry it's been so long! It's not that I haven't had an opportunity or encouragement, it's just that my brain ...heart ...has been on overload. For those of you who might not know, I didn't return to Thailand as planned on the 28th because Vanessa began experiencing pregnancy problems that indicated that our precious Jayde Lynn may be coming earlier than expected. Those problems now seem under control, but unfortunately Vanessa is currently fighting the flu...no fun under normal circumstances, but especially no fun while pregnant. The intial decision to delay my departure was a no brainer...but how long to stay has been a bit more challenging as Sam and I both were both at peace with the decision for me to return to Thailand and then come back to Texas shortly after the birth. I guess if I've learned anything this year, it's that plans really are made to be changed!
Consequently, my New's Year's resolution is to live in the moment more dependent on seeking God's purpose and pausing to experience his joy..to be flexible...striving to calm the chatter in my mind and to actively and expectantly listen to the Holy Spirit's direction after lifting my prayers to God.
Over the past 2 weeks, it has become clear that Vanessa, Sam, and I all need me to be positioned for a quick response....a 27 hour plane ride just doesn't qualify as quick!
So until Jayde Lynn arrives and Vanessa is comfortable in her new role as a mommy, this mommy will making her home in Corpus Christi with frequent visits to the best B&B's Katy has to offer :) I'll never be able to thank Tim and Terri, Steve and Sue, David and Phyllis, and Cecil and Cheryl enough for their gracious hospitality, loving encouragement, and total support. How blessed I am!
Honestly, I'll try to do a better job at keeping in touch, but just in case I continue to suffer from blogger's block, feel free to call my cell 832-248-5352. I'd love to visit.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
The Hope of Loy Krathong
As the saying goes, " When in Rome, do as the Romans do"....or something like that! Anyway, last night, Sam and I joined with what seemed to be all of Bangkok and headed for the nearest body of water in order to offer thanks by the light of November's full moon for water. In truth, I offered thanks for so much more as I prayerfully stood on the banks of the Queen's Park lake.
The traditional festival dates back over 700 years and finds it roots in a Hindu festival where the water gods were thanked for their help throughout the year by floating a krathong (a beautiful floating bouquet lit with candles and incense) on the river. Today, in addition to offering thanks, pushing the krathong downstream is symbolic of washing away the previous year's sins and hoping for good karma to come. There's even an official song that children learn from an early age much like we learn Christmas carols that is translated something like this-
November full moon shines,
Loy Krathong, Loy Krathong,
and the water's high in the river
and local klong,
Loy Krathong, Loy Krathong,
Loy Krathong is here and
everybody's full of cheer,
We're together at the klong,
Each one with his krathong,
As we push we pray,
We can see a better day.
It was a beautiful sight seeing families praying together, then watching them as they gazed at their krathongs float away so full of hope and anticipation for a bright future. The collective beauty of the candle light on the lake and the sweet incense filled air made a lasting impression. However, on a deeper level, the festival has left me wondering and questioning...
I wonder if God heard the prayers of each precious person's heart even if they called Him by another name... I wonder if I had been born in Thailand to a Buddhist family, would I be a Christian today?... I wonder why it's so hard to accept the gift of forgiveness and the hope of eternal life God gave us through Christ's sacrifice...
Christ said that we as Christians are the light of the world...I can't imagine the beauty that would fill the earth if we all shined with our God given potential like the lit krathong candles on the lake last night...Surely, then the whole world would bow down and worship the one true God.
The traditional festival dates back over 700 years and finds it roots in a Hindu festival where the water gods were thanked for their help throughout the year by floating a krathong (a beautiful floating bouquet lit with candles and incense) on the river. Today, in addition to offering thanks, pushing the krathong downstream is symbolic of washing away the previous year's sins and hoping for good karma to come. There's even an official song that children learn from an early age much like we learn Christmas carols that is translated something like this-
November full moon shines,
Loy Krathong, Loy Krathong,
and the water's high in the river
and local klong,
Loy Krathong, Loy Krathong,
Loy Krathong is here and
everybody's full of cheer,
We're together at the klong,
Each one with his krathong,
As we push we pray,
We can see a better day.
It was a beautiful sight seeing families praying together, then watching them as they gazed at their krathongs float away so full of hope and anticipation for a bright future. The collective beauty of the candle light on the lake and the sweet incense filled air made a lasting impression. However, on a deeper level, the festival has left me wondering and questioning...
I wonder if God heard the prayers of each precious person's heart even if they called Him by another name... I wonder if I had been born in Thailand to a Buddhist family, would I be a Christian today?... I wonder why it's so hard to accept the gift of forgiveness and the hope of eternal life God gave us through Christ's sacrifice...
Christ said that we as Christians are the light of the world...I can't imagine the beauty that would fill the earth if we all shined with our God given potential like the lit krathong candles on the lake last night...Surely, then the whole world would bow down and worship the one true God.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Counting the Days!
10 more days and I'll be home! Can you tell that I'm just a little excited? It's not that I need to get away from Bangkok...I'm really becoming quite accustomed to this humongous city and it's bizzare sights, but rather that I can't wait to be with family and friends. I feel like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz...the Emerald City was beautiful, but there's no place like home!
I know it's a busy time of year, but I'm hoping to snatch as many times as I can at Starbucks or maybe even El Jarito/Los Cucos...just to enjoy the moments with everyone. Once I'm in town, I'll be available on my cell# 832-248-5352.
FYI- So far this is what our schedule looks like...
Dec. 1 Tracey arrives in Houston at 5:36PM
Dec.2-15 Flexible...a portion of this time will need to be spent regrouping in Corpus Christi, but of course I'll want as much time as possible with Vanessa, family, and friends.
Dec. 15 Sam arrives in Houston at 5:40PM (S&T Holiday Inn)
Dec. 16 Baby shower for Vanessa (S&T Holiday Inn)
Dec. 17 Sam and Tracey drive to Missouri
Dec. 18-21 Visit family in Missouri
Dec.21 Sam and Tracey drive back to Texas
Dec. 22-25 Christmas with Vanessa (We'll be at the Reeds as they've graciously let us borrow their home while they're in Big Springs with Lauren's family)
Dec. 25-27 Corpus Christi...Sam needs a day to putter at "home"
Dec. 27 Spend the night in Katy at Holiday Inn...very early flight on the 28th!
Dec. 28 Sam and Tracey travel back to Bangkok...I don't even want to think about leaving again. Wish you all could come with us!
Dec. 30 Arrive in Bangkok at midnight
Dec. 31 Happy New Year!!
I guess I'm getting a little ahead of myself wishing you all a Happy New Year...instead I need to be sure that you know that as I'm counting my blessings this Thanksgiving, you can be sure that you'll all be lifted up in prayer. Sam, Vanessa and I are very grateful for each of you and the blessing you are in our lives.
I know it's a busy time of year, but I'm hoping to snatch as many times as I can at Starbucks or maybe even El Jarito/Los Cucos...just to enjoy the moments with everyone. Once I'm in town, I'll be available on my cell# 832-248-5352.
FYI- So far this is what our schedule looks like...
Dec. 1 Tracey arrives in Houston at 5:36PM
Dec.2-15 Flexible...a portion of this time will need to be spent regrouping in Corpus Christi, but of course I'll want as much time as possible with Vanessa, family, and friends.
Dec. 15 Sam arrives in Houston at 5:40PM (S&T Holiday Inn)
Dec. 16 Baby shower for Vanessa (S&T Holiday Inn)
Dec. 17 Sam and Tracey drive to Missouri
Dec. 18-21 Visit family in Missouri
Dec.21 Sam and Tracey drive back to Texas
Dec. 22-25 Christmas with Vanessa (We'll be at the Reeds as they've graciously let us borrow their home while they're in Big Springs with Lauren's family)
Dec. 25-27 Corpus Christi...Sam needs a day to putter at "home"
Dec. 27 Spend the night in Katy at Holiday Inn...very early flight on the 28th!
Dec. 28 Sam and Tracey travel back to Bangkok...I don't even want to think about leaving again. Wish you all could come with us!
Dec. 30 Arrive in Bangkok at midnight
Dec. 31 Happy New Year!!
I guess I'm getting a little ahead of myself wishing you all a Happy New Year...instead I need to be sure that you know that as I'm counting my blessings this Thanksgiving, you can be sure that you'll all be lifted up in prayer. Sam, Vanessa and I are very grateful for each of you and the blessing you are in our lives.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
A New Day...A New Adventure!
I'm a bit rushed for time, but wanted to write once more before I headed out to Udon Thani, a city in North East Thailand where the Voice of America was broadcast from during the Vietnam War. First of all, each of my days since my very bad day have been absolutely wonderful in every way! Thank you so much for keeping me in your prayers. I've now officially taught English for a week and am in heaven. The pre-k and kindergarten students are like little sponges. If I can sing it, they can learn it...or at least repeat it!
This weekend, I'll be experiencing several new adventures...one right after another! The first adventure will be flying an "off brand" Thai airline to my destination of Udon Thani. Fortunately, I'll have lots of women from the American Women's Club to keep me company. I'm not really nervous. Just trusting that if the airline wasn't safe, the club wouldn't have selected it.
The next adventure involves teaching English again, but this time to high school girls who have received scholarships from the club to pay for this year's tuition. The club works together with the Peace Corp to sponsor this annual English camp for about 200 girls. I'm excited to be seeing a new area of Thailand and to be working with the Peace Corp. Many of you will probably remember that it's always been one of my dreams to be a PCV (the local lingo for Peace Corp Volunteer). This may be as close as I'll ever get to fulfilling that dream so of course, I'm bringing my camera to record the moments. Be on the look out for new pictures some time next week.
Speaking of being on the look out, Sam should be home in about 30 minutes. Yeah! It'll be so good to see him, however we're going to have to visit fast since I'll be leaving tomorrow morning. I'll be back on Sunday evening, but he leaves for Batam on Monday morning... just ships passing in the night! I guess it's all part of the wonderful adventure called life. (22 more days !!)
This weekend, I'll be experiencing several new adventures...one right after another! The first adventure will be flying an "off brand" Thai airline to my destination of Udon Thani. Fortunately, I'll have lots of women from the American Women's Club to keep me company. I'm not really nervous. Just trusting that if the airline wasn't safe, the club wouldn't have selected it.
The next adventure involves teaching English again, but this time to high school girls who have received scholarships from the club to pay for this year's tuition. The club works together with the Peace Corp to sponsor this annual English camp for about 200 girls. I'm excited to be seeing a new area of Thailand and to be working with the Peace Corp. Many of you will probably remember that it's always been one of my dreams to be a PCV (the local lingo for Peace Corp Volunteer). This may be as close as I'll ever get to fulfilling that dream so of course, I'm bringing my camera to record the moments. Be on the look out for new pictures some time next week.
Speaking of being on the look out, Sam should be home in about 30 minutes. Yeah! It'll be so good to see him, however we're going to have to visit fast since I'll be leaving tomorrow morning. I'll be back on Sunday evening, but he leaves for Batam on Monday morning... just ships passing in the night! I guess it's all part of the wonderful adventure called life. (22 more days !!)
Friday, November 2, 2007
It Was a Terrible, Horrible.....
...No Good, Very Bad Day! We've all had them. They're the kind of days that seem like if anything can go wrong, it does...to the extent that it's laughable. I did laugh, but mostly just cried. I'm writing about it this morning only because I don't want to forget the blessings a bad day can bring.
It all started on Thursday evening. When I got home from school, I was met with a horribly strong paint smell. The wood floor in the next apartment was being refinished or something like that. Anyway, within minutes, I had a headache so I decided I needed to leave. With really nowhere to go and no one to go with me, I went shopping for school stuff. That went well until it was time for dinner. I hate to eat alone, but decided to brave the food court. The tacos I ordered were the worst...yet I felt guilty for being ungrateful as there are children on the streets around the world, for sure here in Bangkok, who literally are starving, so I ate the them.
During the night, I got a phone call from Vanessa. She'd had a scary day trying to navigate a county hospital in order to get some test her Dr. had ordered...to be honest, my heart keeps breaking over and over. In the morning, I was lonely, had a headache and worst of all, had that fragile weepy feeling....I really wanted to stay home with the covers pulled over my head, but I'd promised a friend I'd give her a ride to school as she doesn't have a car and driver.So I got myself together and headed off for another day of preparation at school (I start my regular schedule of teaching on Tuesday).
Well, I ended up crying all the way to her house, tried to act as though nothing was wrong...that didn't work and was blessed by her sweet encouragement. Leanne knows what it's like to be so far away from friends and family as she and her family moved here from Australia about 8 months ago.
After I got to school, I got busy on setting up my room and was OK until in a quiet moment with another friend, the floodgates opened once again. This time, there was no holding back. Again, I was blessed. Jody prayed the sweetest prayer over me...I gave her permission to share with the team from UNOH and I know they'll also be lifting me up. They are mighty prayer warriors.
As I was leaving, I crossed paths with another friend, Anjie, who could tell something was up. Of course, the tears started again. After a quick hug from her, I was in the car and headed home all the time wishing for the privacy of driving my own car. My poor driver, Ton, had seen me upset earlier and now again. Well, once we got to the apartment, I realized I'd forgotten my backpack at the school. Wanting to help in any way, Ton offered to go back to school and get it. I let him go alone as I just needed space. By the way, earlier in the day, I'd realized that I'd also forgotten my cell phone in the apartment that morning.
Since I didn't have my key, nor my cell phone to call my friend Gini (she's a blessing everyday...in fact since she hadn't heard from me as we had planned, she was ready to contact Sam in Australia and organize a search party!), and not wanting to bother the office, I sat by the pond in the lobby. The only bad thing that happened there was I got a glass of water from the cooler and proceeded to pour it in my lap...don't ask me how, but this time I laughed. Not long after that, I crossed paths with Mindy. Mindy is from Utah and is mom to Jack (3) and Jane (2). I explained my key predicament and jokingly asked her if she knew the book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. She was familiar with the story and also could relate to the day...she said she'd had plenty of them! Later in the evening, once I'd made it back into my apartment, Mindy delivered a plate full of warm cinnamon rolls....another sweet blessing!
The final blessing of the day came in the form of a text message from Ton at around 9:00. I'm not sure how he did this because up until now, my cell phone has only displayed Thai script. Anyway, he wrote of his concern for me and offered to do anything he could to help. As his English is very limited, I know he must have sought help or spent hours using a dictionary.
Reading back over the day, nothing really that bad or horrible had happened. The bottom line was that I was feeling lonely and vulnerable. As in the past, my first response was to withdraw and tough it out on my own. But yesterday, not wanting to let someone else down, I forced myself to try and rise above the feelings. Obviously, I failed. But it was in my failure that I was blessed. I think that's when God can do His best work...when we finally let our defenses down and say, "I can't do it." God answers with, "I can."
It all started on Thursday evening. When I got home from school, I was met with a horribly strong paint smell. The wood floor in the next apartment was being refinished or something like that. Anyway, within minutes, I had a headache so I decided I needed to leave. With really nowhere to go and no one to go with me, I went shopping for school stuff. That went well until it was time for dinner. I hate to eat alone, but decided to brave the food court. The tacos I ordered were the worst...yet I felt guilty for being ungrateful as there are children on the streets around the world, for sure here in Bangkok, who literally are starving, so I ate the them.
During the night, I got a phone call from Vanessa. She'd had a scary day trying to navigate a county hospital in order to get some test her Dr. had ordered...to be honest, my heart keeps breaking over and over. In the morning, I was lonely, had a headache and worst of all, had that fragile weepy feeling....I really wanted to stay home with the covers pulled over my head, but I'd promised a friend I'd give her a ride to school as she doesn't have a car and driver.So I got myself together and headed off for another day of preparation at school (I start my regular schedule of teaching on Tuesday).
Well, I ended up crying all the way to her house, tried to act as though nothing was wrong...that didn't work and was blessed by her sweet encouragement. Leanne knows what it's like to be so far away from friends and family as she and her family moved here from Australia about 8 months ago.
After I got to school, I got busy on setting up my room and was OK until in a quiet moment with another friend, the floodgates opened once again. This time, there was no holding back. Again, I was blessed. Jody prayed the sweetest prayer over me...I gave her permission to share with the team from UNOH and I know they'll also be lifting me up. They are mighty prayer warriors.
As I was leaving, I crossed paths with another friend, Anjie, who could tell something was up. Of course, the tears started again. After a quick hug from her, I was in the car and headed home all the time wishing for the privacy of driving my own car. My poor driver, Ton, had seen me upset earlier and now again. Well, once we got to the apartment, I realized I'd forgotten my backpack at the school. Wanting to help in any way, Ton offered to go back to school and get it. I let him go alone as I just needed space. By the way, earlier in the day, I'd realized that I'd also forgotten my cell phone in the apartment that morning.
Since I didn't have my key, nor my cell phone to call my friend Gini (she's a blessing everyday...in fact since she hadn't heard from me as we had planned, she was ready to contact Sam in Australia and organize a search party!), and not wanting to bother the office, I sat by the pond in the lobby. The only bad thing that happened there was I got a glass of water from the cooler and proceeded to pour it in my lap...don't ask me how, but this time I laughed. Not long after that, I crossed paths with Mindy. Mindy is from Utah and is mom to Jack (3) and Jane (2). I explained my key predicament and jokingly asked her if she knew the book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. She was familiar with the story and also could relate to the day...she said she'd had plenty of them! Later in the evening, once I'd made it back into my apartment, Mindy delivered a plate full of warm cinnamon rolls....another sweet blessing!
The final blessing of the day came in the form of a text message from Ton at around 9:00. I'm not sure how he did this because up until now, my cell phone has only displayed Thai script. Anyway, he wrote of his concern for me and offered to do anything he could to help. As his English is very limited, I know he must have sought help or spent hours using a dictionary.
Reading back over the day, nothing really that bad or horrible had happened. The bottom line was that I was feeling lonely and vulnerable. As in the past, my first response was to withdraw and tough it out on my own. But yesterday, not wanting to let someone else down, I forced myself to try and rise above the feelings. Obviously, I failed. But it was in my failure that I was blessed. I think that's when God can do His best work...when we finally let our defenses down and say, "I can't do it." God answers with, "I can."
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