Thursday, November 18, 2010

Sooah-sdey, Kñom moak bpee Kanadah

So this is it. My bags are all packed, including work gloves and pliers (for holding nails, to avoid banged thumbs), and I'm getting ready to leave for the airport. I've read the guidebooks, had my vaccinations, paid my share of the group expenses, and even got ahead on my blogging. You've got a post almost every day I'm away, not quite.

So many thank-yous go out from me to everyone who contributed to this effort. I am inspired and awed by your generosity, and will do my level best to build the best possible homes with the greatest of respect for this community. The project is not so much about bringing Canadians with marginal building skills to a country with lots of unskilled labourers as it is about inspiring Canadians with access to money to bond with the country and fund the project, and to demonstrate to a devastated country that they matter. First, they'll see us there, having travelled from across the sea because of them, and then they'll see that foreign and exotic as we are, we're a bunch of clumsy human beings, not as good at nailing things together as the people from their village who have worked on such projects before. Is not, "The world cares about you, and you're as good as anyone in the world," one of the best messages of hope you could give to anyone? Especially when they get a house out of the deal. Oh and because the group leader used the fantastic response from Cockpit Conversation readers to goad the rest of our group to fundraising efforts, we raised enough to fund a new school as well.

For the next couple of weeks you'll have regular aviation blog entries to read. I'm afraid there's rather an overemphasis on boobs and junk food. I was six weeks in the same location and didn't realize how strange my notes were until I tried to blog them. I'll let you know when I'm back, but will probably take a break through most of December before posting details of my Cambodian adventures.

The post title means "Hello, I am from Canada." I'm afraid my Khmer isn't up to much more.

11 comments:

amulbunny's random thoughts said...

Blessings and good travels. A star will shine brighter in the heavens for the good that you are doing.

Clear skies and following winds to you.

Capt. Schmoe said...

Tailwinds and smooth landings Aviatrix, I know this will be a challenging yet rewarding experience for you.

You are to be commended for this endeavor, it is evident that you are a giver, not a taker.

gmc said...

"...boobs and junk food.. " Cue the music: "These are just two of my favorite things!!" er not quite...

Stay safe, but take some risks... Be ready for some surprises.

Michael5000 said...

Go get 'em, tiger! So to speak.

Echojuliet said...

I am so excited for you! Can't wait to read of the adventures, see some pictures, and hear wild tales of the locals fear of your unusually green hair :)

Ditto on the blessings, tailwinds, and good travel wishes

townmouse said...

And have fun. Don't forget to have fun. Just because you're out there to do good, doesn't mean you can't enjoy it.

Phibius said...

Good luck over there, and great to hear about the school. It's wonderful to think what a difference your work will make, and for how long.

Splendor said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Splendor said...

Enjoy the far-east, it's a truly fascinating place. Siem Rep is worth a visit if you have some time.

S.

Frank Van Haste said...

Bon voyage, Trix!

Frank

Sarah said...

Have a wonderful trip! Please tell us all about it when you can.