Last week in Cao Bang

We have just a few days left here in Cao Bang. It has been quite the adventurous little community so far. I realize I haven't blogged in a while. I've been sleeping during my free time more than anything else. I am still trying to get over whatever attacked me 2 Sundays ago. My left ear has been somewhat deaf for over a week now. That can't be good. Not to worry, I 'forced' myself to chug a few shots of vodka to see if it'll clear up- I'll peep you kosted!

Late last week another group of students joined our class- the little ones! We now have 2 groups going, the teenagers and 10 students under 12 years old. We have 4 little guys who make everyday super entertaining. They have great imaginations and love to challenge us all. I plan to smuggle one of them in my backpack this Friday to take him back to Ha Noi with me and then home. Take a look- isn't he adorable! ;o)

Just kidding this isn't him. We met this guy on Sunday at the lake. So happy he was in a cage but he did tug at my camera while I was taking a picture. Yes OFC I screamed my head off!

Meet Dung (pronounced 'zoom') who loves to pick on the other boys and is so full of energy. This is the little guy I'm talking about. He also grabbed at my camera which was inside my pocket at the time- sneaky!

Now over the weekend the students planned a surprise visit for Carly's birthday (Happy Birthday Carly!). They showered her with gifts and flowers on Saturday evening which was totally sweet and unexpected. Even Viet was a bit shocked at their planning which she knew nothing about. Carly was overwhelmed as everyone ran to greet her to give her such beautiful bouquets of flowers and neatly wrapped gifts. It was exciting to see! It reminds me again of how much people can really influence each other and connect, no matter the time constraints or language limitations. It was a very happy moment. This group of students is very loving and supportive of each other. It really has been an incredible group. They are eager to chat and learn about everything. I think I have learned more Vietnamese Sign Language than Vietnamese with these students :o)

Carly getting bombarded with love, flowers, and gifts.

On Sunday we took a trip to a nearby lake. I didn't quite pay attention this time to what the name of it was, sorry. We did convince Viet, however, that we should bring along all of the older students. It was definitely fun times getting to hang out with them outside of the classroom. Of course every moment can be a teaching moment but it was nice to be able to play outside. We were caught in this amazing rainstorm which lasted about 1 hour. I absolutely LOVED IT! I do love weather :o) It rained and rained and rained that I thought the lake might fill up to the top where we were at- just kidding! It did rain inches and inches in a matter of minutes though. It was cool to sit and watch and listen.

Well fami- I should really get to sleep already. It is after 2am here and I must be up early. I am starting to feel anxious that I only have days left here. I don't know that I want to leave or maybe I am ready to leave- I'm not sure. It's been a real mindblowing experience and the thought of going back home to deal with life as I know it there just feels- blah! So many people all around the world fight for their survival and to protect their families everyday- I'm going to school and worried about writing papers or paying rent.... it just seems kind of ridiculous sometimes...Remind me again what my goals are... I have been known to drop out of life and take off to experience something new- that is for sure! It has been a long time here in Viet Nam. It will be interesting to go back home and get back into that way of life, big sigh! I have so much in my head right now.

Enjoy the rainstorm as much as I did! Until next time fami, goodnight!