Christmas in Thailand

Would you begin a family again after you own family is grown and on their own? This man and woman from the Karen tribe were asked to do this. Last year they were living in a Karen tribal village up in the mountains, and had the pleasure of seeing their children growing independent, getting married, and starting their own families.

Instead of resting in their grandparent role, they were asked to become the Dorm Dad and Mom of Doi Saket 3. This was not a choice that came easily to them, but they were impressed that God would have them make this commitment. They left their village and moved to Doi Saket and accept the responsibility for a "family" of 18 orphans.

Their son and his wife moved with them and are the helpers at the home. Boon and his wife would be delighted to know that you are praying for them as they are parenting young ones at this stage of their life.

It was Christmas in Thailand today! Not really, but the kids had fun. Today Debbie Flinchum took pictures of the kids to place on their cards that are sent to their sponsors. The children then also gave two or three interests to be translated on the cards so that their sponsors will know a little about them.
I found out from writing down their statements that their interests range from studying English to Chinese to playing marbles, playing dolls, and listening to music. One boy likes ROTC, and another girl loves aerobic dancing. Yes, these kids are growing up into their individual strengths.
While the story telling was going on, other kids were enjoying a relaxed Sunday afternoon. This young one was riding her rocking horse.
The girls were already knitting scarves from the yarn they received this week.
The boys have multiple games that they have created from rubber bands. This one looked like pick up sticks. Another one I observed involved lying down and blowing the rubber bands to see whose went the farthest.
Guess what the teenage girls do on an afternoon off? They hang out together- listening to music and posing for their "attitude" shots.
Meanwhile, the boys are doing the same thing, relaxing under a tree handling boy talk and the pleasure of some down time.

We leave tomorrow morning for Cambodia. It has been a encouraging week here in Thailand listening to the staff and moving forward in blending western culture, Thai culture, hill tribe culture into a new culture of practicing our Christianity together in a manner that honors God.

(We have posted two blog entries in the last day so make sure that you catch both of the new ones.)