Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Thailand: Part One

So here on this side of the world, many things have transpired. We have been in Thailand for almost a month now and time sure does fly by. So far, we have completed Module I of Thai Language School, we have braved the Thai transportation system, we have gone to a few Christmas parties, we have had sleepless nights due to the street dogs, and we have been continually been reminded of why we are here.

Currently, we are focusing on teaching English at a school here in Thippawan. We will be very grateful for the prayers. Personally, I am not a teacher and the thought of teaching children who can't understand me, is intimidating beyond all reason. However, we will do it.

There's a little insight as to what's up... Not much I know. I'll try to get on that at a later date!

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Update One

DTS is over and the journey to Thailand is soon to begin. I'm enjoying my little amount of time with my family and friends. However, I currently feel rather overwhelmed by the things needing to be done before I go.

I spent the last three months in Ohio preparing for Thailand. I was stretched in ways I never thought possible. I will admit, many things certainly transpired that made me second guess my decision to go to Thailand, but in the end, those things are the things that contribute to making one stronger.

My favorite part of DTS was volunteering at an after school program called The Zone. I was in the fourth and fifth grade classroom and I spent my time there helping with homework (they are learning algebra younger and younger...), teaching crafts, playing in the gym, and just talking to some about how the day went. I was never short my quota of daily hugs on the days we were there. Many of these children come from broken families or just bad situations in general. It was neat to be able to see the teachers pour into the lives of these children everyday. I learned so many valuable lessons from the teachers I shadowed. As I left, I cried. I was hugged hundreds of times by thirty-five children in under three hours. I am also now the owner of an over-sized, hot pink card, a few original works of art, and a chain mail bracelet of many colors. I miss my fourth and fifth graders.

In one week from now, I will be in Thailand. Please keep my team in your pr-y-rs. We will need them as we prepare to teach English, learn Thai, and build relationships. =]