That time of year again

Hangin in the Gulf of Mexico, USA

So it’s that time of year where things get crazy and people stress out. This is not so much the case in Mae Sot, as it seems people don’t really care too much about Christmas here, there are more important things to think about instead, or something. Not having a tv or speaking the local languages has helped with this Christmas oblivion I’m experiencing, it was only a couple of days ago that I realised the big day is next Sunday. Anyhow, I don’t know what I’m going to be doing for Christmas this year, as I will still be in Thailand. I thought about trying to make a pavlova for my friends here (who are keen to make eggnog, which sounds disgusting if you ask me), but the idea of using my arm to whip those egg whites seems like all too much effort, especially as I don’t even like pavlova that much, I’d much rather have a bag of salt. Also, you can’t get cream here so the whole idea is probably pointless. Anyway, I’m very excited to be heading back to Aotearoa (that’s NZ for those of you that don’t get te reo Maori) just in time for New Year celebrations with my friends.

Loving Bagan, Burma

All dressed up for a Karen wedding

This has been one of the best years of my life, I’ve been incredibly lucky to have had so many amazing new experiences in eight very different countries and at home, and to have met so many awesome new friends from all over the world. I love my life in Thailand, but sometimes it gets really tough living here; there are days when nothing makes sense, everything is difficult, loneliness, homesickness and empathy-fatigue set in, and it feels like the world is out to get me. At times like this it really helps to know that I have so many wonderful friends and family that love and support me. I’m truly grateful to all of you; I couldn’t have done any of this without you.

Adoring abandoned babies at work

Living amongst such desolation and poverty has helped me reassess myself and the things I want in my life, I’m not trying to get all deep and meaningful here, just saying that you can’t live in a place like this and not be reflective on how it changes you. I’m yet to see just how much I’ve changed, as I think many of the things I have learned are subtle, and will only come to show themselves over time. However, something that hasn’t changed is my particularly high levels of scepticism and cynicism. Some people probably think this is a bad thing, but I wouldn’t be me if I wasn’t constantly sceptical. Who knows, maybe Burma is really changing? 

Hanging wit Nellies in Thailand

Serving up kava in Tonga

I think I’m going to leave this here. I’ll be in Aotearoa for about a month or so, so hopefully I’ll see a lot of you in that time. I’ll be back in Mae Sot and writing this again in February. Until then, have a great summer (and an acceptable winter to those of you in the Northern Hemisphere). Stay safe and all that.

Angkoring it up in Cambodia

I can't wait to see what 2012 will bring for us all (and it will not be the end of the world, trust me).

Love Liz.

PS. If anyone is thinking about being charitable this festive season, take a look at our Christmas appeal, we need all the help we can get to continue our programmes.

Never let your fears prevent you from doing what you know is right.