Time to play

Short and sweet:


1. Christmas was great--just a relaxing time with the other American teachers. Lots of food, movies, games, and loafing--just as it should be.


2. My gracious thanks to those of you who have given money for the orphanage. I have continually been moved by the love and kindness of those around me--friends, family, students. It's amazing how He works through anyone to accomplish his tasks. The outpouring of kindness and love from my students, most of whom have no...religious "convictions" (shall I say?), has been incredible. They have not lived in the climate of religiosity like most of us, yet that has not stopped them from giving selflessly: giving money, knitting hats and scarves, donating clothes and school supplies, and even helping me organize a fundraiser. Amazing. They are filled with love too.


3. Now for the best part: I'm going away for a while. 


Two months, actually. 


Yup, I get a two-month winter vacation. Not bad. Do you know what else is not so bad? I'll be spending that time with some good friends in Indonesia and Thailand. After spending New Years in Bali, we'll visit Java, Sulawesi, and Malaysian Borneo (basically the most beautiful place on Earth. Amazing jungles AND amazing reefs/ocean life. Remember the "Jungles" episode from Planet Earth? Remember how most of the episode was shot in Indonesia? Yeah, that's where I'm going!). 


After Indonesia, we'll head to Chiang Mai, Thailand, and then a bit more wandering near Bangkok and southern Thailand.


I don't think life get's much better. I am so excited.


Of course, these means you will hear nothing from me for two months. But rest assured, I'll have about 3000 photos to share when I return. So look forward to that. 


Until later.