They gave me more then they'll ever know

"I've seen and met angels wearing the disguise of ordinary people living ordinary lives."                                                                                                   -Tracy Chapman

To be really honest, I signed up for this trip for the CIP points. I had originally thought that I would just be helping the citizens in Cambodia to build houses or to teach them some stuff but boy oh boy was I wrong.

The very first day had us all waking up in the early morning just to arrive in the airport in time. Some of us didn't even sleep. Needless to say we were all very tired but the excitement of the trip in front of us kept us awake. But our excitement only managed to keep us awake till the flight took off. Or at least, for me. Hours later, our plane had officially arrived in Siem Reap. Our journey had only just begun.

In my own opinion, I felt that we had not helped the people of Cambodia enough. So many of them were still suffering from poverty, and yet they still welcomed us so warmly and were so eager to learn from us. It's a trait that is sadly lacking in us Singaporeans. On our very first visit to the orphanage there, we were greeted by all kids who call the orphanage their home, they said warm hellos or 'O-kun' to us and we replied in the same way. Their smiles a far cry from their living conditions. We taught them some english songs and they in turn taught us theirs. Later, we had time to interact with them and many of us made friends with the locals there.

My trip to Cambodia was also a much need wake up call, to remind me to wake up and look at the things I have around me, to look and appreciate everything I have. The Cambodians don't have much, yet they're so optimistic towards life, so eager to study and yet us Singaporeans whine about everything. We're constantly rushing to meet deadlines, comparing what we have to others, complaining about the littlest things. I feel that in that way, they are more fortunate than us.


Also, I'm thankful for the teachers who came with us, coupled with our tour guides, they made my trip a truly unforgettable one. To everyone who came on this trip, Okun!

"We can do no great things, only small things with great love."                                                                                          - Mother Teresa

-Germaine.

Dare To Dream

a little love + action

I believe just 6D5N of having the opportunity to interact with the Cambodians is a blessing to all of us, especially me. This feeling is indescribable. Only when i'd witnessed and experienced what was least expected  in this highly-developed world, then will i learn to appreciate what i have. This trip is definitely an impactful moment in my life journey, i'll never forget how my presence could bring smiles to their faces and heaven in their hearts. After this trip, i am really inspired to be a tour guide. -someone to open the eyes of others to the things unseen in this world-. Not just bringing people to share the joy of the world to less-developed countries, but also to change the perspective of their views. I want the world to know, of these Little Cambodians that so long for our care and concern:

To end off, would like to thank the 5 teachers for creating such opportunity and privilege for me to have a life-changing experience. Leihai, i'll be back to Cambodia one day! ^^

My feelings about what I have experienced during the trip and what I have learnt

The feelings about our experience during the trip are hard to describe. I even have trouble trying to tell my friends about the trip. All I could say was "it was great/meaningful/fun". During the trip, I had mixed feelings. Until you experience it yourself, then can you understand those feelings. But, I’ll try to write it out here.

Well, during some of the lessons where we had to teach them English, i wanted to quit and rest. But really it was the students' eagerness to learn that kept me going. As mere students ourselves, i felt unfit to teach the kids there. When every lesson ends, I will think to myself whether it was good enough but at the same time happy to be able to provide some help to them. During the activities we did, I felt a need to give my best. Like when playing outdoor games with the kids, I couldn’t just sit there and look at the sky. I felt as though the kids carried high hopes on me, every time I daze off, they'd be disappointed. My feelings were mostly dependent on the kids, "They happy, I happy".

I learned how to say many Khmer sentences during the trip. I learned how to communicate with them and at the same be mindful of their feelings. After the trip, I have definitely learned to appreciate the things I have in Singapore. Like: a family, a house, homework given, sufficient food and even proper flushing system. I would love to go for another trip like this if given the chance.

To end off, I would like to thank our 5 teachers who supported and encouraged us.

Peace out,
Harriet :)

A learning experience I won't forget.

This C.I.P trip to Cambodia really taught me many things that I could never have learnt here in Singapore. Over there, the peoples' living conditions were extremely bad and impoverished unlike Singapore where the majority of people get to enjoy their lives in luxurious conditions, e.g air conditioners, beds to sleep on, proper toilets etc. and get to have nutritious meals three times a day. Majority of the Cambodians were poor and left hungry as seen from their small frames. I feel that most Singaporeans are priviledged to actually have a place to live, food to eat, chance to study etc. These things do not come easy for most Cambodians as they simply cannot afford it. So I think that Singaporeans should treasure and cherish what they have instead of complaining and grumbling on things that are superficial, taking things for granted. ( no offence ). Life in Cambodia were very simple and yet the people were contented, going about their daily lives. I really admire them for their simplicity, as simplicity, to them is an attribute, and they would make full use of what they have to survive. No complaints came from them at all. As most of the children in Cambodia are weak in the command of English, communicating with them was a tough job. Fortunately, they were humble. I believe that they would succeed in mastering the English language and a better life would be ensured for them as English is an international language. Though I have only taught them for a while, but I could see that they were putting in the effort to improve their English language, and if they continue with this positive attitude consistantly, I'm confident that they would be successful in the future.
I was also very touched by one thing about the Cambodian children, and that is their sincerity. They were very sincere and appreciative in everything they do. E.g. they would welcome every visitor to their school by waiting at the entrance and saying 'hello', also giving thanks to everything they receive. Though this is a simple word, it can brighten up someones day. The smile from their faces did have an impact on me as they were not arrogant/stuck up, at all. I have taken away so many things from this trip and all these are experiences that would help change me to become a better person. Jia you and good luck to all the children/people in Cambodia in achieving their excellence in life.

Low Chuwen Fu

Adventure and Experience .

Before I went on this trip, some of my friends were telling me how bad Cambodia was, that there were a lot of insects and lizards. But I still wanted to go as I felt that I needed to be adventurous and also to help those who are less fortunate than we are. I was a little afraid that I would regret going on this trip. But I saw a quote, and I agree with it.

"Never regret. If it's good, it's wonderful. If it's bad, it's experience." -Victoria Holt

Just before the trip, I did not know what I expected. Maybe I just expected too much, because when I visited the villages, I was quite shocked by what I saw. Their living conditions were worse than I what I expected. For the first two days of the trip, we went to Baray Kompong Thom Province for our homestay. This allowed us to experience the living conditions of the people there. This made me really miss my home, and this allowed me to realize how fortunate I really am, that I have a fully-structured house and a comfortable bed, unlike most of the Cambodians living there.

We also visited an orphanage and helped out there. The orphans lived life to the fullest, and had a positive outlook on life. And I felt that that was something we could learn from them. Many times, we complain about what we have. When someone gives us a gift, no matter how big or small, we do not know how to truly appreciate it. However, the Cambodians there, really know how to appreciate things. When we give them something as little and as small as a piece of sweet, they will say "Thank you" and they appreciate it. From what I have experienced in Singapore, whenever someone gives us a sweet, most of the time, we consume it immediately, and most of the time, we ask that person for another piece.

Through this trip, it has taught me to appreciate everything we have, and not take things for granted. For example, in the classroom. We have fans in the classroom, and yet many of us complain that it is very hot, and that we want air-conditioners installed. However, classrooms in the schools in Cambodia do not have fans. Let alone air-conditioners. Yes, I agree that Singapore is a very developed country. However, just because of that, we still should not take things for granted. There are many people who are less fortunate than we are. Maybe we should think of others more, and be less self-centered. And this trip can really help us do that, to be a better person.

I did not regret going on this trip. Actually, I felt blessed, grateful and thankful that I could go on this trip, as this is not something that we can experience that easily. I feel that more trips like this should be organized as it really teaches people the values in life.


Be appreciative. Be grateful and thankful for what you have, as there are much more people who are less fortunate than us.

-Jazreel

If There's A Will, There's A Way

I was looking forward to this trip after I've got the news that I'd been selected to represent the school to go to Cambodia for CIP. However, there was a whole string of worries struck me. Where am I going to sleep? Is the food there suitable for me? Must I dig my own toilet? Can I get use to the environment there? These questions came into my head till the day we went to Cambodia.

I couldn't sleep that night as it was my first time travelling overseas (other than Malaysia) and sitting on a plane. Long before that I had already thought of in what ways can I bring myself closer to the people there. The people there are friendly and of course, our tour guide, Mr Moni was kind of a humorous man so I did not felt bored for the entire trip. I was reluctant to eat the crickets and grasshoppers as they seemed, 'unpleasant' to me. But seeing all my friends eating it with courage, I ate it too...well, It taste like prawn crackers! Well its the Cambodian version of potato chips! Eating insects can never be found in Singapore. Therefore, it will be a memorable experience for me to remember it for a life time!

We went to the local orphanage to familiarise with the children there and I found out that when we gave them gits like cakes and pencils, they will always placed their hands together and say thank you (alkun). I was touched. In Singapore, cakes and pencils were easy to find and we just need to pay a few dollars to get them. But in Cambodia, giving the kids the presents that we brought from Singapore its like they had struck lottery! The children in the orhanage were not as fortunate as us. They lived in a run down building with spider webs dangling above their ceilings. For me to be honest, I couldn't stand living in such condition. The children gained my respect as no matter how hard their lives could be, they did not complain. In fact, they live in dignity. They want to strive for a better living. Unlike Singaporeans, we had high technology schools for us to studied in and wonderful meals for us to eat until we're full, we still complain. "Why must we do homework?" "I hate test!" "The canteen food was pathetic!" But when we're complaining, we did not think of the Cambodians were having a harder time then us. Most of them did not have the chance to study and they could eat plain rice with a plate of vegetables for their dinner without complaining.

The Cambodians slept in the condition of not having a air conditioned room. All they have was a fan. They slept on hard wooden floors and what about us? We slept on our comfortable bed with an air conditioner blowing at us every night! We should really reflect. This trip really left an grest impact in my life and I will change myself for the better by not complaining.

Another thing I've found out after this trip was (the teachers might be happy to hear this) teaching was not an easy job. We had a hard time communicating with the children there due to our languages. But the children there never fails to give us their full attention and waited patiently for me to explain to them. I can sense that their will to learn, to learn more about the world, to increase their knowledge.

My mother asked me this morning that whether if I would go back again to Cambodia to help the children there, and I replied immediately, "YES." I will never ever regret that I went to Cambodia. In fact, I would like to go again, maybe next year? After 'O' levels. I will recommend my friends to go with me to experience the KINGDOM OF WONDERS.

By: Christina Lee

A small change can make a big difference in someone's life

 I strongly feel that this trip to Cambodia has changed me. My thoughts, my feelings and my actions. I have matured. I am more appreciative of things. I am thankful for the things around me. I learn to make use of every moment that I have to do something meaningful. Helping people has turned out to be a pleasure and not a chore.



During the trip in Cambodia, I've experienced what it is like to be in a less-developed country. This trip has caused a great impact in my life. I am inspired by the optimistic view of the Cambodians. They are eager and willing to learn new things. They are positive towards life and don't let obstacles block stop them from learning. They do not think of their poverty as an end to their learning. They use each and every obstacle to keep walking on - To keep on learning, growing and blooming. I am amazed by them and their courage to face everything.


They treasure what they have. What about us Singaporeans? How often is it that we start grumbling and moaning to our parents. 'I want a new camera!', 'Why can't I have an Iphone?','I want new clothes!'. Why can't we just learn to appreciate what we have? Be grateful for what you have. Be reminded that there are more who are not as blessed as you.

Enjoy your own life without comparing it with that of another. -Marquis de Condorcet 

Love goes a long way..
Let us do whatever we can for other people.

Audrey

This CIP trip is very meaningful to me because we, as a Singapoeren  is very fortunate to stay in Singapore. The thing that what we want , we will have it easily as we like, unlike like the children in cambodia,they want the thing but they can't buy or afford by themselves easily. But in them i can see that they will try will hard to get what they want and strive to improve themselves even better.

I have fun with all the people who goes for the CIP Trip.I hope all of us will apply the attitude that the Cambodia children haves and to be a even better person. :)

Yeah! Cambodia Rocks!

Leong Kai Ying

   

Post-trip reflection

I felt that this trip really humbled me a lot and it has changed everyone in one way or another . It is really a live changing experience for me and I hope that I will have a chance to go on such a trip again . Helping others really give me pleasure . These small things that we do bring pleasure to others and also to ourselves . It really warms my heart to see all the Cambodian kids feel so happy and excited that we are there to help them , to interact with them . I want to study hard while i have this chance , so that i can find a better job in the future so that i can afford to go to such countries to help others .
Around us , the Cambodian kids are so glad , their smile shows everything they want to say to us . Be thankful for what we have now .




Amanda

Before this trip,friends and relatives were telling me how scary cambodia is.
But i am still looking forward to this trip.Its really change my view of life.In singapore,at home i had everything i wanted.Nice clothes,New stationery when i found my was old.I worked as part-timer and bought many many new clothes when i got alot which i still haven't wear.I complain that weather was hot and sometimes my parents don't allow me to on the air-con.In cambodia children,they can't ask for more or want what they want immediately,all they had is to wait for a better tomorrow and hoping for a good life ahead and future.
         I used to grumble when my maid cooked the food which i don't like.I used to be picky with food.Now,it changes when i came back from cambodia.Kids at there are different from kids in singapore, they are much more poor than us,but they don't ask for more things like kids in singapore is really much more different.The villages in cambodia they doesn't have any toilet or electricity.They are really very pitiful,but they doesn't ask much.They just want to have food to eat thats all.I remember,we went to give some clothes and food to some villages,those stuff can last them till several monthes.It means cambodia people they know how to saved and don't spend.Is a good way for us singaporen to learnt.
         I am really delighted that i gained alot of experience during this trip.I won't forget the places i went in cambodia.The time we had together.And even the food at solar cafe, is great.I enjoyed myself when i'm at the orphange, chit chatting with the children,even take picture together, and there this girl name Sok Khang.I'm touched by her, loved the children smile and their scream!I can't stand my tears, thats why i drop tears,feeling so bad.Even remember that we went to "Periwinkle primary school",teaching the kids games,basic english and even oral hygience, the outcome was great!It gives me a special feeling when i enter the school,enjoying teaching children at the primary school.
            Children in cambodia are awesome!I can see happy faces everywhere.I am so ashamed with myself,sometimes my clothes there's a slight torn, i just threw it away,but back in cambodia,children wearing old clothes,old slippers and even some without clothes.Whatever food they have,they just eat,without any complain. But for me in singpore,food that doesn't suit me, i will just complain or even don't bother to eat.Now,i'm back, i learnt to be humble, be happy with what we have.They even have the spirt of never give up life until the day you leave the world,no matter how hard life is carry on with your life,aim for your wish and make a goal with it.I am looking forward to this CIP Trip again next year.I missed cambodia and the children there.Cambodia i will be back again and cambodia there are great, i never regret going there, and thank to those kids make my life with full of achieves now!=)              

Before this trip, I was thinking that this trip is just another normal school trip. But after this trip, I felt that this trip changed me into a better person. This trip is really special one as it changes people way of view of life. We never have enough of everything, keep asking for more. But now, I realised the children in Cambodia cannot ask for anything but to pray that tomorrow is a better day for themselves.

I used to grumble that I don't have enough nice and pretty clothes. But now, I don't.
I used to complain that my room have too many mosquitoes and make me itch. But now, I don't.
I used to do my homework and cursing teachers. But now, I do my homework happily and feel grateful to my teachers.
I used to be so picky in food. But now, I don't.

I felt really grateful to this trip. I learnt. :)

Despite the situation the children in Cambodia are in, they still face it with a happy face. I felt really useless at that time. They are still happy despite they have to wear used clothes, old slippers or even eat just a little. I still grumble what I have now. Now, I learnt that despite what happen, just smile and everything will look better.

Yesterday is History. Tomorrow is Mystery. Today is a Gift. That's why it is called the PRESENT.

Reflection after the trip

  This CIP trip to Cambodia has been a really meaningful one, It is a trip that one will not find in Singapore.

  I've learnt alot from this trip from basic skills to moral education, This trip shows the different side of me, one that I will never find in Singapore. From the living the life of a modern 2000s year Singaporean in a pampered and rich city to a peaceful kampong life of Singapore back in the 1950s.

  Before day 1, I've been looking foward to this trip for a long time, Upon arriving at Cambodia, the first thing that change myself is eating Insects about an inch long, Everyone dare to try it and we felt really proud of ourself, When we arrived at the Village, We really found ourself back to the simple facilities, I will never forget that experience and life there. Animals roam freely and the villagers were friendly and hardworking, and noisy rooster woke me up in 4 in the morning and I had to go to the toilet in total darkness,It was also enjoyable to look at the night sky.
 While teaching students from the school, It was tough espicially since we speaked different language, but we manage to teach them as they were very willing to learn, unlike us who take school for granted, they go all out, one boy said something to me that really motivated me, He said that he wanted to study very hard and go to university so as to be able to come to Singapore to meet us, Upon hearing that, I've felt really guilty about the way we are back in Singapore. When delivering food/clothes to the needy, their genuine smile on their faces warms our hearts and brightens our day,We feel a strong urge to help more people then. During campfire, We were all dancing and moving according to the music, everyone was enjoying ourself, in the end, we were all tired but happy, this would not have happen in Singapore whereby most will just stay attached to the computer rather that enjoying themselves to the 'real' natural entertainment. From that experience, I've learnt that we must all strive and learn to live life to the fullest and happiest. Although I cannot bear to part with the village, but we evantually have to go.

 I felt that the toughest day was on Day 4 when we spent our whole day doing community service such as carry zinc blocks, painting and leather carving. I've learnt that the people there have a very strong will to go all out and strive for the better, after that day, I felt that I need and will change for the better. It's not just about doing community service but also about helping out others and making their lives much better. The words that are painted by us will remain in my mind, and I hope the local Cambodians will remember and strive to their fullest potential : When there is a will, There is a way!

 The best day was probably day 5 whereby we enjoy ourself the whole day, It felt very magnificient to see Angkor Wat, one of the 20 finalist candidate to the 7 wonders of the world.

  Overall, This trip has been very meaningful and has change my life for the better, I will not take things for granted and will strive to work hard and be a better person, I do wish the trip was much longer, as I felt an urge to continue there for about a week more. I would like to thank the teachers : Ms Quan, Mr Ong,Ms Voo, Ms Kati, Ms Lim,Ms Karen ,Aunt Esther and Mr Moni for their support towards me and the group. Hope there will be more people joining for the next year trip as it will definitely change your life for the better and bring out the 'true' in you.

Gladwin (Gazing into the night sky from a different angle on Earth)

Day 5: Day of Tourism

         It has been a very fun day for everyone of us as we had gone on a sightseeing trip to various places of interest. First, we had our breakfast in the hotel's restaurant. It was great! Then, we all went to the Bayon Temple in Siem Reap and had our first activity of the day - ELEPHANT RIDE! For many of us, it was our first time riding the elephant. Some of us were worried about falling down from the elephant's back as the seat seemed to be unstable. Although the ride was bumpy, we managed to see the beautiful scenery around the Bayon Temple. The temple was surrounded by a moat and we could see the reflection of the magnificent temples in the water. It was an amazing sight to behold! Bayon temple is a Buddist temple and although the temple is in ruins, it attracts thousands of visitors daily.

 

The next destination we went to was the AngKor Wat Temple. It is one of the seven wonders of the world and we were so thrilled to be able to see one of the wonders! To show our respect to the Cambodians, we had to wear long pants and shirts with sleeves into the temples. Most of us had difficulties climbing up the steep steps that led to the top of the temple and we even had to use our hands to pull ourselves up.

During the visit to Angkor Wat, many of us were sweating profusely because of the hot and humid weather. Despite that, we did not give up and we continued visiting all the temples. We all enjoyed ourselves thoroughly during this trip! The AngKor Wat temple is a majestic beauty!

Next, we went to the Siem Reap War Museum. There were guns, tanks and other war weapons in the museum. These displays showed us the cruelty that the innocent people had suffered during the war. We even saw where the landmines were before they were defused by the US people.


After a 30 minute drive, we arrived at the Jungle Temple. The temple is completely surrounded by nature, just trees and plants. Some of the trees had roots growing on the temple. The temple is also especially cooling. Although the temple is under reconstruction, it does not fail to attract many tourists to visit the place. Today, we also had the opportunity to shop for gifts this evening. Many of us left the night market with bagfuls of gifts for our friends and relatives.

All in all, we have had a lot of fun and a wonderful learning experience in Cambodia. Each and every one of us has grown fond of Cambodia and some of us even wish to stay here for a few more days. This trip was a very enriching one, and we'll all cherish  the memories that we have from this trip.

Posted by Group 5
Germaine, Yu Hui, Christina, Amanda

Day 4 - Same same yet different

 

What does 'change' mean to you?

Getting out of bed earlier than usual was an unusual routine for many of us. Nevertheless, we're awake, alert, alive and enthusiastic for the day to come.

We started the day with breakfast in the hotel before heading  to the Bakong Orphanage, Siem Reap. With only 3 classes of students, we taught them joyful songs: 'Hokey Pokey', 'If you're happy'', basic English, drawing and colouring, handicraft and painting of the toilet walls. The boys even helped in the building of the zinc roof. Afterwhich, we left for a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant.

We had more than enough to eat, yet just a simple dish of stew could satisfy the Cambodians. We should spare a thought for the poor children when we moan and rant over too much food to eat. Thinking of the children in the orphanage, we couldn't enjoy our lunch.

Returning to the orphanage, we completed the painting of the toilet walls. Next, we started on our second painting mission, which is the library. Not only did we paint the walls, we also painted a mural of hope for them - "When there is a will, there is a way". We had a go at leather crafting. It appeared easy at the hands of the skilled Cambodians but we found it challenging when we did it ourselves. Any wrong angle in handling the chisel would have ruined the piece of art. Thereafter. we did area cleaning. Before we left the orphanage, we distributed oral hygiene kits to them. We couldn't bear to leave the orphanage. We wished the day was longer as our presence was much apprenciated by the orphans.

We are inspired by the positive spirit of the Cambodians. Being able to bless the Cambodians through our contributions, it brought us pride. A sense of euphoria overwhelmed us. We brought about a small change. a change in the hearts of the Cambodians.

Like a lighthouse shining in the darkest place, we brought hope to them and put smiles on their faces. A simple life they have, yet they have such positive attitude towards life, and are appreciative of life. We have plenty of food to eat, luxurious bedrooms to sleep in and proper classrooms to study in. Do we even spare a thought for others whenever we complain?

The Cambodians don't have a choice but we do.

Let's live life to the fullest!

Posted by Group 4

Krichelle Teo, Harriet Lee, Audrey Koo, Jazreel Lim.

Day 3 Leaving With A Heavy Heart

All of us developed feelings for the Homestay at the Baray Kompong Thom Province and we were upset that we were leaving so soon. All of us left with a heavy heart. Everyone did not want to part with the children and the villagers there. When we left the Solar café to proceed on to our next destination, Siem Reap, everyone tried to fight back their tears when we boarded the bus. Initially most of the students were skeptical of the Home

stay as we were worried over the kind of food that we would be served. But after spending two nights at the Homestay, it was clear that all of us enjoyed staying there. We love aunt Esther’s magnificent cooking.

After witnessing the kind of environment that the children in Cambodia grow up in, we feel guilty that we did not appreciate and cherish what we have in Singapore. We were in awe as the children in Cambodia vean undying spirit to succeed in life despite their living conditions. Today, we had the opportunity to visit another orphanage, the Bakong Orpanage Home. We saw that the home is lacking in proper facilities.
The children welcomed us by putting up a puppet show to welcome us. We will be going back to the home tomorrow to carry out our CIP project.

Next we went to a local market where we had a great time shopping and bargaining like ‘aunties’. It was fun and we had a wonderful experience.   

Posted by Group 3

Kaiying, Chuwen Fu, Gladwin & Jasmine

Day 2 : Awesome Bonfire.

 We woke up at 6am after hearing the "morning call" from the rooster. After having a sumptuous breakfast of homemade Kaya, Rice Dumpling, & French Loaf, we went to Periwinkle Primary School to interact with the students from Grades 2 to 4.

We taught them English, numbers in English as well as how to sing the Alphabet Song. The kids were very keen to learn and they were very attentive. They were very polite and said thank you when we gave them sweets as rewards everytime they answered our questions. We played games with them as well; the boys were very rough but happy, and enthusiastic when they played soccer. The girls loved playing the Eagle & Chick game. They appeared happy and enjoyed the game a lot.

 

We also donated 200 over hygiene packs to the kids there. We taught them how to brush their teeth, wash their face, how to wash their hands and how to comb their hair. They felt really thankful for the gift  because back in their village, they don't have such things. They usually use ash & salt to brush their teeth with a tree bark or their fingers. After this visit to the school, we feel very fortunate with what we have, and we feel very sorry for the children.

The afternoon was fun-filled while we carried out CIP activities.

We started by taking a pony ride around the

villages. We gave the villagers food rations that we had bought with our monetary donations and we had packed the ration before the visit. The food rations consist of rice, salt, sugar and fish sauce. We also found out that Aunty Esther (our homestay owner) had sponsored the building of a house to a family who couldn't afford to build one. We felt that the families appreciate our rations and are all very grateful to us. They are friendly and we really had lots of fun doing this. We took an ox-cart ride around the farm behind our homestay. We had the opportunity to see a beautiful sunset. 

In the evening, we had a bonfire and all the children from the village attended.

We watched a group of traditonal dancers danced to traditional songs. We performed 3 songs and we received tremendously loud applause. Aafter our performance, the children from the orphanage taught us the steps to the traditional dance. We had a lot of fun. We made many friends from the village. When the Bonfire ended, we sent the orphans back to the orphanage. They were so sweet when they said they'll love us forever. It was touching and almost made us cry.

By Group 2
Nicolette, Rebecca, YongHui and Joven