We are here in Cambodia!
We had a five-hour flight to California. After claiming our luggage (ALL of our luggage—PTL), Paul checked with Singapore Airlines and they allowed us to check our luggage in EARLY. Then it was off to In 'n Out Burger where the team spent some time laying on the hill outside and watching the planes go over. Once we returned to the airport, we went through security and waited to board our flight. Our flight was almost 45 minutes late leaving. We did not think we would make our connecting flight, but the airplane was able to make up the time—we landed within a couple of hours of arriving.
The flight to Singapore was 16 1/2 hours. We had a couple of good meals and they gave out snacks a couple of times. Since it was a mostly overnight flight, most everyone slept a good bit. They all managed to wake up everyone (but Sasha, who we were not able to wake up, despite trying hard. After determining he was breathing, we let him sleep. He finally woke up refreshed and was able to eat the snacks and the second meal.)
Upon landing, we had 1 1/2 layover in Singapore. We were able to walk around a little and those who wanted coffee or a snack were able to purchase those. Our last flight was only 1 1/2 hours long and they managed to squeeze in breakfast (for the second time). Again, all of our luggage arrived (such a blessing). We met our missionary, Phany, and then boarded a bus to our project site. Before leaving the city, we stopped to buy some food supplies for our project time. The team was able to buy snacks or anything they needed.
Due to the large amount of rain, the base rearranged their housing to allow for all of the team members and leaders to sleep inside. What a blessing!
The project site is coming along well. They have been hauling rock and bricks in order to work on the dormitory building. The students help in the afternoons which is a blessing. And we are still battling "jet lag", but are slowly adjusting.
We have had some rain, mostly in the evenings. It is VERY hot and humid, but there is usually a good breeze that makes it tolerable. We have been working hard at keeping the kids hydrated and are so thankful for the hydration packets we brought with us. We were able to purchase more in town today when a couple of the leaders went shopping for food. The team is encouraged to take frequent breaks to rehydrated (and frequently we have to "make" them take a break from working). And we are making sure they are using sunscreen as the sun can be intense.
This team is such a blessing to the leadership. We so appreciate their obedience, unity, helpfulness, how they engage in classes and how much they seem to enjoy one another. And they are really good at making us laugh...
And a word from some of the team members:
Cambodia has been great so far; it was amazing to see how we adjusted to the airport after not having a lot of those things (like AC) for 10 days. For our afternoon Bible study, we are studying Genesis, which I am so excited for! Everyone has been tired, but we are working hard anyway, especially when we are encouraged by Mrs. Beth and Miss Lauren's cooking. I am so excited to see what the rest of the summer holds as we have only been here for two days. - Ruby R.
Deuteronomy 8:3 - "...that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord." This morning, as I helped make bread for my team, I was reminded of this verse. I thank the Lord that He has provided everything we need to sustain us on the field and at home. I also want to thank our supporters who supplied meals on our journey as well. So today, I am reminded of all the different things my team and I are thankful for. Thank you for your support! Sending prayers and love! -Liz K.
It's hot out here. We greatly fear the curse of dehydration. Mr. Paul informed us that our volume shakes the nation. The Lord be praised! In all of our days here, mosquitoes have not appeared. To God we pray, "Keep it that way until we are done!" -Rachel B.
We made it safely to Cambodia. The flights were smooth and we didn't lose any luggage. On the project site, we have been moving bricks, rocks and gravel. The Cambodians on the base are very friendly and speak good English. I am sleeping good, but the roosters crow with shocking volume every morning at 4 AM. There are lots of animals on the base: dogs, chickens, goats, cows, ducks, and thousands of flies. I am thoroughly enjoying my time here. -Natalie C.