Shoshana in Asia's Guestbook

Banana Leaf!
I loved the banana and coconut in banana leaf but my favorite was the purple/black rice paste stuffed with coconut and coated in coconut cream and steamed in banana leaf. They're wrapped in little balls as opposed to the longer packages in your picture. Do you find those in Cambodia? Or is that just a Malaysia thing?

Insights
Thank you for your insights about the people you are meeting. Your descriptions are very clear and paint a vivid picture of what you are seeing- some not so pleasant, but none-the-less, important to know about. I wanted to share that as you were talking about the orphanages, I was thinking about a man asociated w/the chirch I attend, Eugene Faith Center ( a Four Square denomination), I remebered an associate of the church, a missionary in Cambodia, Ted Olbrich, who had spoke earlier this fall. Over a period of years, he has established soewhere around 80 orphanages in Cambodia, and I think, some other sourrounding countries. It's called Warm Blankets Orphan Care International. I believe that they are caring for somewhere around 1000 children- many simply appearing on his doorstep out of the blue. His description of many things you have describes parallel completely. Your supporting information confirms for me that the $$ I have given to this organization was a positive choice. Thank you for the work you are doing, and that you are willing to share so much of it. I hope your toes is better:).

Tonle Sap
Hey Shoshanna, This trip sounds reminiscent of my travel through Cambodia. Siem Reap and the ruins are like a wonderful dream to me now. I did not care for Tonle Sap. Love the photos of the fish massage. I remember lovely restaurants in Siem Reap. Glad you are sharing pics of food. cheers, Michael

Yay kittens!
Wonderful blog, Shoshana! We miss you.

Orphans
I am interested in what happens to the orphans. In the picture on your page, there is obviously quite an age range. Do you have any idea about he % that are adopted as opposed to aging-out of their system? And, how old are they when they have to leave if not adopted?

LA exit
Good grief, I hope that's the last you see of that group of drunk guys. I hope the trip back is more pleasant, with better weather!

Hmmmn
That's one serious lizard. Yikes.

Are we having fun yet?:)
Sounds like tolerance and patience were the "test" of the day, and you did a great job. It's hard to imagine that they are so far behind us time-wise...I didn't realize that. i think I would need a NICE LONG SLEEP before and "skipping" anywhere. I'm yawning just imagining how tired I might be in your place. Thanks for the update...it's nice to hear how things are going. I hope all goes well for you on this trip.

What is the clip on microphone for? Are you planning on doing some video blogging?

birds!
greater, lesser, elegant, little, intermediate, immature, mature, least: they're all good!