It's a nice day for a Khmer wedding

So I am now an offical graduate of the LanguageCorps Program and I have my TESOL (teaching English to students of other languages) Certificate! This week was a bit hectic, filled with interviews, teaching, teaching observation, and paperwork. I had the opportunity to go out to school and teach elementary age students. The program is for children who live in the provinces of Cambodia and they come into Phnom Penh Monday-Friday to have schooling, and then return to their home to work the fields on the weekends. Some of the students are orphans from poorer provinces so they stay at the organization's main building. I loved the kids that I worked with--they were so self-motivated to learn. After a few more scheduled lessons we went outside to play games like follow the leader and simon says. "Teacher, teacher play game!" was a common request the next day. Whatever job I get, I hope to volunteer some time during the week or on the weekends.

Another noteworthy experience I had was attending a Khmer wedding. Dara, a guy who works for LanguageCorps (who picked me up from the airport my first day) invited a few of us to go to his sister's wedding. I'm not sure that I knew what to expect...but I don't think anything would have prepared me for the following events. Right from the street, I realized I was vastly underdressed in my brown cotton dress and braided hair. The women had a rule of thumb; the more sparkles, lace, sequins, beading, and color, the better. Some of the hairstyles might very well be a part of the reason the ozone layer is depleted...way too much hairspray! I walk in to many bows and welcoming words and find our table. I am one of two white females, and one of 6 or 7 non-Khmer people out of the whole crowd...well over 100 in total. The food was unbelievable. Course after course of delicious meats, fish, duck, prawns..it just didn't end! And the people were certainly celebrating, constantly refilling my glass with Johnnie Walker Red Label and cheersing me. As for entertainment...right after the initial singer and band, a troupe of ladyboys made their debut lip synching to electronically-remastered hits. Grandmothers and small children alike cheered and ran up to get a good spot for enjoying the show (booty shaking). I was toward the back snapping photos until a woman grabbed me by the arm and pushed our way through the crowd so I could get a premium spot. Mothers were nudging their children my direction so they could practice their English. Younger and older ladies pulled me into their photos, calling me beautiful...and I was painfully aware of my dusty moccasins next to their fancy high heels. When the dancing began I was really excited and grateful to receive help and instructions with hand motions and foot steps when the song called for it. I knew a few of the guests through LanguageCorps or tuk-tuk drivers, or just friends who hang around in those circles. I wish wish wish I could post some pictures for you, the minute I free up space on my laptop, you will be privy to these goings-on.

An apartment and job are on the horizon, bringing a more stable lifestyle than what I've been used to these past few weeks. I'm looking foward to having that sense of security. I'll let you know when I have an address, although I don't think post here is too reliable. I do have a phone that you can reach me, probably with the use of a phone card for you, and free for me. The number would be 011- 855- 077-238556 for you Americans over there. By the way, I've heard about the crazy blizzards and snowstorms on the east coast...it feels weird to sweat through layers of clothing as thats all happening for you.