I'm Back

Well, one new hard drive later and I am back online. So much has happened this past week, and it will take me a while to update you. For now, I will just offer a few random tidbits.

• Who knew that there was an authorized mac dealer here in Phnom Penh?! Wonders never cease. It's a far cry from the store in Columbus, but I have my computer back and I'm happy.

• A little unsolicited computer advice: invest in an external hard drive and frequently back up your data. (a lesson I learned a little too late.)

• It's still the hot, dry season here. (April is the hottest month.) Yet, it's rained every afternoon for the past few days. This is unusual here this time of year. But I'll take it. The rain cools everything off to a more reasonable temperature.

• Last week was Khmer New Year, and most people leave the city to visit their home provinces. Significantly less people here meant safer, easier bike-riding conditions.

• It also meant less people using the city's electricity. We didn't lose power all week. And today...off for two hours this morning. What a joy during the hot season!

• No computer last week meant lots more time to study language. Kñyom rien juhron nah, howey ilow-nee kñyom neeyay baan jeeung. 

• I taught the kids how to play Go Fish this week...in Khmer. Not sure if I said the right words or not. But we figured it out together anyway:)

• This week, I also played Uno with my landlord's wife and a couple of friends. She doesn't speak any English. Lots of practice with language, and lots of laughs. Sometimes, it was at me and my poor skills, but that's ok. 

• I can't believe it's been over 7 months since I have been here. It's gone by fast.

• It definitely hasn't been easy, but I love the people and am thankful for all the amazing experiences so far.

I need to download some programs tonight and upload pictures. Then I will be able to share a little more. Until then, thanks for all your prayers!!