I Love American English!

I think I am the worst volunteer around. I skipped again *sigh*. I was exhausted after the meditation retreat as I think I only got about 2 hours of sleep (between waking up at 5:00am and the bed..sleep wasn’t happening).

My original plan was to let myself sleep in and go to the orphanage in the afternoon but I somehow ended up with a lot on my to-do list. I know I have said this before, but I STILL don’t understand how I have so much to do when I’m not at home. I NEEDED to do laundry and I also needed milk AND I was out of snacks (that’s what 5 days with only Thai food does to you)! Therefore, I skipped!

I slept in (well needed) and after dropping off my laundry decided to go to the Central Airport Plaza. This trip would kill about 2930 birds with one stone. 1) I wanted to check this place out. Granted I knew it would be just another “mall”, but people had said good things about it! 2) I needed to go to the ATM (hey Dad..about that…) and had read the ATM at the mall didn’t have the dreaded ATM fee! 3) The mall had a supermarket (snacks) and 4) I wanted to get my hair trimmed and knew they spoke English! Oh they ALSO had a free shuttle service, so it seemed convenient.

I called the number and the woman said the shuttle would arrive at the Dusit D2 (the hotel mom, Lorna and I stayed at) at 12:00pm. I arrived at 11:55am and double checked with the front desk. At 12:20pm I asked if maybe I missed it or if the route STARTED at 12:00pm but he said it was normally there at 12:00pm and he hadn’t seen it beforehand. I decided it wasn’t worth any more wasted time and got a tuk-tuk there (oh how I hate bargaining).

So let’s see. 1) It WAS just another mall. BUT it was a nice mall and had all the modern things you like to have in a mall. 2) I found the recommended ATM and it said nothing about a surcharge, so fingers crossed! 3) I went to the supermarket and got a box of green Nature Valley bars. 4) I got my hair trimmed for ¼ of the price I pay at home (which is why I chose to do it here). I really am not that picky about my hair..as long as they don’t dye it or make me look like a boy and this guy spoke English, so it was great!

I spent some time roaming around but didn’t buy anything as it was the same price as things in the U.S., but I did think it was a successful trip. I DID take the shuttle back as I found out when/where it was leaving!

I then got ready to meet my friends! I had made plans with Ely and Beau to meet for dinner and Ely emailed me (it is so funny to communicate without cell phones) to say they had met Ashley (from Texas) at an elephant camp they visited! The four of us went to the Sports Bar (I am an old pro) and it was SO nice and comforting as I felt like I was out with 3 friends from home. I really can’t say how nice it is to 1) speak American English and 2) tell people I am from New Hampshire and have them get it!

We had a GREAT dinner and just kept talking and sharing stories! Ashley is actually living in Shanghai, China teaching English. She studied Mandarin in college and has been there for 5 months. She has a one year contract and loves the teaching.

After quickly scanning my past blogs, I realized I sounded SO depressed after my mom and Lorna left! Boo! Haha! Now granted I was VERY sad and more homesick than I anticipated…but I am doing so much better now! I think I felt a bit guilty as I know I am experiencing the opportunity of a lifetime and all I really wanted to do was get on a plane with them! BUT I SO enjoyed their company and our adventures and now I actually don’t mind being on my own!

I also think you have different experiences traveling alone vs with others. I have met the most INCREDIBLE people and have made lifelong friendships. I think I would have been more hesitant to make those friendships if I was already traveling with someone I was comfortable with.

Even after I went through the whole “I hate traveling alone, etc. thing” I am actually enjoying myself! Now this might be because I know the end is in sight, but to be honest I have had a great time with myself these past four months. Hmm well that sounds a bit strange, BUT I really have had an incredible experience (even through the ups and downs). Anyway, my point being I am VERY happy and while I am SO very excited to be coming home soon..it is also weird to think my adventures (at least for now) are almost over!

Hugs and kisses American English speakers!