Housekeeping and big lunch
Never run out of things to write about!
Last few days has as usual been eventful. The rest of the weekend was enjoyable.
On Saturday, I went into Java cafe for a coffee. It’s fantastic, a real treat and totally relaxing atmosphere. They have art exhibitions there too. I ran into Carla (another YA) and Ivan (working for our in-country manager at CECI - not sure what it stands for but it is Canadian - he’s a volunteer there at the moment).
Afterwards I walked over to one of the other houses in the town where Barbara, Jenni and Cath are living (and Nathalie part-time - she went to the provinces today). They have a fantastic balcony with a nice view of a park.
We went for dinner in Street #240 - it’s the “trendy” street with nice restaurants and even a wine bar - pretty Western but nice. Then we went to a party at Mith Samlan or “Friends”, an organisation working with street kids. Very successful and admirable. Some older kids were helping out at the party. Two of our group are working there.
Sunday was quiet. Ivan came over in the afternoon and our new house-keeper was supposed to meet us there at 2pm. Luckily Ivan hung around for a bit and she arrived at 3pm.
It was an interesting exercise in communication - all of us trying to make ourselves understood was a feat. We got there in the end and we’re happy.
Han is lovely - she arrived this morning. We’ll have her for 2 and a half days a week and Ivan for the rest. She is supposed to be a fantastic cook - I feel exceedingly spoilt.
Today was fine at work - just planning and writing training materials.
I had an experience at lunch. I didn’t have time to make lunch so decided to go over to the restaurant across the road which turned out to be more fo a night-spot I think. Anyway, someone helped me order lunch.
I knew something was up when the staff told me it would be 4 $US which is a lot over here. I tried to ask but didn’t get far and sat on my chair feeling rather worried as 3 baby chicks ran around on the concrete looking for food.
As I thought, I got a mountain of food including Khmer sour soup in a plastic bag, enough for 5 people. I paid my money and ran.
I had a good chuckle to myself and I think the managers thought it was quite amusing. I have brought it home but not sure what I’m going to do with it!
Never a dull moment here…
Ruth e xx
Miss Phnomer in Cambodia
