He's Here. He's There.

It's reflection time. Time to meditate on what I’ve seen, learned, and done... And as I do so, I'm struck with a conversation that took place months ago.

As far as I knew, there was only one other "farang" or "foreigner" that lived in my little neighborhood. I ran to him in a panic one afternoon because our street had flooded and I was in desperate need of a pizza delivery. I had no idea what address to give, so as he searched his man-bag for the information, he naturally asked why I was in Thailand. My explanation was concise and forward, after which he recalled a personal volunteer stint from his youth, saying, "As far as I'm concerned, that just confirmed the inexistence of God". I was totally caught off guard, as my experiences had proved quite the opposite. So why, then, did I struggle to respond?

I’ve pondered that statement multiple times since first spoken. I think of it when I see children with cups, forced to beg on dangerous streets; it comes to mind when I realize I’m standing amongst people who may forever be separated from everyone they have ever known and loved; and the thought passes after I read the letters of innocent prisoners, forgotten and forsaken. The injustices of this world are endless, and from the patterns of humanity and forewarnings in scripture, they don’t seem to be lessening. But somehow, through the pain of unimaginable tragedy, I still stand witness to God’s grace on His creation. I refuse to place blame for suffering on a Father more loving than we'll ever be capable of, and I’d like to think that what we’re told in 2 Corinthians, “just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort,” emphasizes such reassurance. It’s hard to see God when life is overflowing with every need and want (times five), no?

With that in mind, I’ve got to tell you about my time in a western province of Thailand along the Burmese border.

Michael and Katy arrived in Bangkok from Australia a day or so after me. It only took a few conversations to fall in love with them both, but they shortly left the city for their placement work in the juuuungle. This last week, I was blessed to be welcomed into their home and hearts for an amazing, final, shebang. The two live in a gorgeously natural village where Michael functions as a physiotherapist, and Katy teaches at the local school. The work they’re doing is fantastic, and the relationships they’ve built made their dedication evident. I had a blast on the back of Michael’s motorbike, as a large portion of his work is spread across villages. His days involve the strengthening and rehabilitation of disabled individuals, and hands-on training for caretakers. The majority of residents were Karen refugees (watch this in HQ for great background info!), not Thai, and they are some of the most beautiful people I’ve ever seen. The projects and people I came across blew me away. Truly.

Michael and Katy, thank you for allowing me into your life here, and for being the wonderful friends you are.

Welcome to Sangklaburi.

Katy and Michael!

An amazing spot for a swim!

One of their favorite spots.

 

We visited this incredible compound where volunteers literally go into the jungle looking for people who have fled from Myanmar. CRAZY. Below is a refugee who had a stroke and suffers from mental and physical instability. It's disabling enough to be a refugee... but to live as a handicap makes the challenges that much harder.

Twin brothers. Orphaned. One is disabled and the other, HIV-positive. Beautiful, beautiful boys. Thankfully, they are looked after by a compassionate caregiver that offers tremendous attention to their needs. Michael visits to stretch and work with the disabled brother, who is in need of another caretaker to accompany him to school. If they can't find anyone, he won't be able to attend this year. Please pray! 

We stopped at a Safe House, where a couple has opened their home to SOOO many Karen refugees. The couple's daughter was leaving to give birth, but she asked that they have a time of worship before she left. About 40 kids and adults piled into the room, and sang hair-raising melodies. The Karen are known for being musically gifted, and they just naturally fall into a harmony. 

One of like, four pictures I'm actually in! I joined Katy and Michael for the first day of their Candlelight Camp. It was a blessing to be around a group like this.

Babe: His name is SOCCER!! For real.

This was such an amazing trip for me, and I have looooads of pictures, but so little time to edit! Will have to do more when I get home.

Today also happens to be Mother's Day, so I'll send a special shout-out to the hot mama that brought me life. Can't wait to see you! XOXOXOXO!

Tongue Teasers. Or Not.

This one's for you, Bob. 

He must of said it ten times. "Make sure you try the..." something intestine, I don't remember. "I hear it's a delicacy over there." Thank you, ex-cheese, for reassuring me of the food I'd be facing when invited into homes, offered gifts of love, or forced with no other choice of cuisine. Cheryl and Nancy were way nicer. Hmph.

I love Thai food. I craved and consumed it weekly while home... so you can imagine my delight when discovering authentic dishes for less than two bucks! Thai food also earns approval for satisfying my affinity with all things spicy. Drawback? Eighty percent rice. Like, seriously? If I'm hungry, just give me the meat!

Ever tried ant eggs? No? Weird, because I have.

I've definitely found myself stuck, having to be polite and placing things on my tongue I'd rather set on fire. Here's a look into some of the good, and bad, eats of Thailand. I'll have to post a part deux and some point.

Fish! At least you know it's fresh... 

I eat this guy and his family about three times a week, and I've learned to appreciate picking off the bone. Am I scoring points with you, Uncle Rich??

Duck. Heads. And other "parts". This is how a lot of the stands are set up in the markets; selling a specialty.

Any guesses?

These are really popular street foods, and good for a quick bite.

This is what I stopped for when I sliced my finger! My Indian friend now sits with his stand in front of my place eveeeeery night, because he knows if I spot him, I'm sold. Soooo yummy.

Weird little gator egg snacks.

Prickly fruit.

Don't know the name, but it's about the size of a soccer ball and tastes like a crunchy grapefruit. Make sense?

Grasshopper, bug things, and chicken tongue. Can't go wrong! Too bad I flipping LOVE the black thingers!

She's eaten dog. Yeah. I know.

Sweet leechees.

MANGO!! Buttery, buttery mango. They are fantastic and grow absolutely EVERYWHERE!

That's what I've got for now! I'm actually sitting outside in the jungle being eaten by mosquitos posting this!! Internet. Who knew. Can't wait to get photos up from here (on the Burmese border) - it's an AMAZING place!

XOXO

I've Been a Bad Blogger...

Maybe I deserve a timeout, but it's been one of those months. Those months when 24 hours in a day never seems like enough. Those months when gravitation toward chocolate fiercely spikes, and it feels like driving on a tire rim with every ATM visit. Those months when my sleep is stolen by checklists and panic attacks, and the few dreams left are set in a time portal where I can just get my life DONE! I know God's got it under control, but it's haaard to let go (cue whiny voice).

I'm officially approaching the two-week mark. Two weeks and I'll be on a flight, lower lip trembling, jaws in a death clench (Who am I kidding? You KNOW I'm a sap and the tears are already flowin'!) But, but, BUT - I have so many things to look forward to. I get to head home to the warmest family in the world, incredible friends, and a big ole' side of the greatest guy. REEEEWIND - yeah, but there are like still a BaZillion things I need to get done first!

Because all of NY is "desperately" awaiting the return of yours truly, my family has agreed to hold a really relaxed get together. Come hang out with amazing people, listen to some of my crazy stories and plans, and eat Fo' FREE in the company of others! Here's your officially unofficial save the date - May 23rd - bring the fam, friends, pets, whateva! Just come. I'll have an e-vite to remind the world, but since I've acquired a following of shadows, I'll announce the deets on here as well.

On that note, I'm doing my best to keep up with photos. And at this point, my best is a loser. I promise to crank out more goods before I leave, and if I don't, a timeout it is.

 
Just a fashion inspiration I'd like the men in my life to consider... 

I haven't forgotten about you Mr. Bob A. Happy Wednesday!

Adrienne & Co.

You’ve heard me name-drop the big boss in a few posts, so I think it’s about time you meet her for yourself!

I’ve been extraordinarily blessed to grow under such a genuine, compassionate, and FUN director. Adrienne’s passion lies in the hearts of people who haven’t yet realized their God-given value in this world. And because of her passion, she has dedicated her life to brining those under appreciated hearts to the realization of self-worth and hope. Such an inspiration, and come to think of it, I’ve never seen her in a bad mood. I think being around someone who exudes such positivity in all they do has refocused a lot of my supposed needs and wants.

I remember the day she picked me up from orientation, and her first words, “Oh, dear.” I was a complete disaster, red-faced and whimpering, doubting my decision to come. Today, I firmly believe she could not have helped make my experience more amazing, on every level. Really. We've laughed uncontrollably and shared moments that no one but the two of us will truly understand.

Adrienne's a package, so with her I got her awesome kiddies, Jessica and Daniel. Jess is the 4.0 athletic model that is incapable of being mean, even when trying her hardest. Daniel is the creative musician, and one of those just-stay-there-and-keep-being-yourself-because-you’re-flipping-hilarious-for-no-reason kind of people. AND, adding to their level of coolness is the ability to switch between three languages during a single conversation. Standing amidst the three of them and their interactions makes it impossible to overlook how in love they are with one another.

Thank you, Adrienne, for taking such good care of me and being the Godly mentor and friend you are.

Love, Your Favorite Volunteer ; )

I so love this image. Very them : )

For you.

They ain't hearin', seein', or speakin' no evil!

Getting their Taekwondo on.

My Girlfriend's a Rockstar

The header says it all. So yeah, my girlfriend's a rockstar.

Congratulations to Ms. Jamie Glisson, of The Icon and The Axe (she was my bosom buddy first!), on the new release of her delicious CD! 

You can preview here, and buy here! "Firing Squad" is the personal fave.

And here's a shot of my lovely, just 'cause she's fab. XO, James! SO proud!

 

State of Emergency

I am so sad for this country. Truly. The past two days have been spent on lock-down in my stark-white-going-insane room. Because of political unrest and violent rioting, Bangkok was declared in a state of emergency. 

I drove with some friends through the city this afternoon. Suddenly, the overcrowded and colorful streets of Bangkok were eerily vacant unless marked by military. Protesting started peacefully, but has escalated to violent demonstrations and taken two lives. Two men, 50 and 19 years old, lost their lives... for what? 19?

If you don't know what's going on, there are two political "sides" - the Red Shirts and the Yellow Shirts. The Reds are anti-government, many of them uneducated and a large majority unsure of what they're really fighting for. Their protests are aimed at the resignation of Thailand's current Prime Minister. Buses were highjacked this morning and set ablaze, stores and shops were destroyed, and now the blood shed.

The people of this country are frustrated, and even if they don't know why they're fighting, I guess protests like this provide an outlet. I am so sad for this country. Truly.

These photos are from MSNBC.

Can find updates at: http://www.bangkokpost.com

Too Much Traffik

It's men. It's women. It's children. Approximately one million humans are trafficked every year, and thousands of them were born in Cambodia.

It was a three hour drive to the border from Bangkok, and although only minutes from Thai soil, crossing the border took me into another world. Endless dirt roads - They were first thing I noticed. Kids carrying babies - Second thing. Sketchy, everything - Final observation before declaring Poipet an unhealthy environment for any person to live. 

Men are trafficked into forced labor, while women and children are trafficked for sexual exploitation or forced into organized begging rings, soliciting, and street selling. This was how the street beggar I recently wrote of came to be. It's horrifying and it's rampant.

It was the only light I could see in this new world of darkness. The Cambodian Hope Organization, or CHO as it's affectionately called, came to life when Chomno In pledged all he had to the people of his country. It was God. It was his vision. It was his calling.

In only seven years, CHO and its OUTSTANDING staff have transformed thousands of lives with a passion for more. Among the laundry list of mind-blowing projects CHO coordinates, schooling opportunities are provided for children with no means of otherwise receiving education. The organization is also in the process of building a mega "safe haven" that will function as everything imaginable for women and children who have returned from being trafficked or are currently at risk.

This team is 100 percent offering the gift of hope through love, and I was so blessed to witness God's mark on it all. THANK YOU for an unforgettable experience!

I attempted to find the beauty of the situation. Here are some shots from my trip to Poipet, Cambodia.

Dirt roads, everywhere.

Workers pulling their goods to the border.

"SCHOOL ON A MAT"! That's literally what it's called. CHO set up 25 mats throughout the town where child workers could come and learn basic reading and writing skills. They're also educated on trafficking and other relevant issues.

CHO sets up vocational training for men and women to create better lives for themselves.

There were so many children taking care of children...

I needed proof! Little did I know I'd have the opportunity to jump in and help in the construction of CHO's safe haven. The project is amazing, so how could I not help?! I'm a skinny beast! Legit!

Looking forward to returning next year and seeing more of the country... there's a lot of hidden natural beauty there. 

I'm heading to Malaysia Tuesday (!) before working my way back to the south of Thailand for a family camp. Love*

PS - Bangkok has been declared in an official state of emergency. Please keep the situation in prayer.

Rojana + Creecha :: Wedding

I love weddings. I love weddings, because I love love. And what better occasion to celebrate love than the union between two of God's beautiful creations?

Rojana and Creecha met three years ago working side by side at world vision. Their passion for serving others, God, and their other halves was so evident during our time together. I was blessed to meet their warm families and freeze the beginning of life as one. Thank you, Rojana and Creecha, for your selflessness and compassion. God has awesome plans for you as a couple!

Photographing a Thai wedding - vastly different from what I'm accustom to - presented more challenges than expected. Plus there's always the what factor, which involves my internal thoughts shouting, "WHAT just happened, or WHAT did they say?!" every ten minutes. I could only grab five minutes of alone time with them, but here are a few shots from the day!

Yay for love.

Getting beautified...

Rojana had her dress made in Bangkok.

Work it, girl! Twinkle those eyes!

Creecha getting prettied up... in a manly way.

Outside the church.

It's not a Thai event without a MOD SQUAD!

Professing their loooove... I think?!  *wink wink*

Looks like an act of respect to their parents.

Yay! They're official!

Suuuuch a doll.

And they lived happily, ever after.

The end.    

; )