Friday had me once again at the primary school, from 8:30 t0 11:00, teaching Grades 1 and 2.

A new experience for me was during the 30-minute break between the 9:30 – 10 a.m. class.

The children were allowed to visit the student concession stand, which sells all kinds of single-serving packet snacks. Potato chips, corn curls, peanuts, marshmallow packets, cookies, juice cartons . . . The children race about with their money, able to buy whatever they want while teachers stay in the classroom or lounge around outside.

I sat under a courtyard tree and was immediately surrounded by different age levels, all of whom knew me as I have taken turns teaching them all. Some remembered our lessons together and began doing our English chants of songs. Others just stared with wide-eyed wonder, listening to those of the higher grades communicate with more than “OK”, “Yes” or “No.”

I have 2 children at this school who have exceptional English skills. Both have parents that are in business and speak to overseas’ clients. Both could actually have decent conversations and they certainly had a lot to say!

This caused some astonishment among the others, who stood by in awe and wonder that the strange sounds coming from all 3 of us actually were understood and had meaning.

As for most surrounding me, our communication was limited to lots of gestures and exaggerated facial expressions on my part to get across my English as well as limited Laos. I’m hoping all of this improves in the next several weeks as I work on my language skills.

A Sunday Pitstop After Church

My 35-minute drive to and from church takes me through several small towns and country roads. It also includes me holding my breath, praying that I don’t end up sprawled on the side of the road due to the mud and muck after our continuous heavy downpours. With little ability to go around puddles, you just have to plow through the deep water and pray the tires don’t suddenly slide out from under you, sending the motorcycle careening to the right or left.

At the outskirts of one of these towns, I’ve continuously whizzed by the chicken barbecue roadside stall without ever stopping. Going to church, I’m usually worried about making it on time for our 10 a.m. service. Returning from church, I’ve already had our substantial lunch served after worship and, as it’s usually around 1:30 p.m., I just want to go home. I’m tired!

But last Sunday, I was feeling overly energetic and sociable so I stopped.

These are entire chickens, skewered and grilled, brushed with a flavorful and spicy sauce or (if you prefer) just left plain.

The cost for one was 84,000 Kip ($3.40). Once purchased, the sellers would chop it up for you and place in a plastic bag for take-out.

The popularity of this particular place has always astounded me. It’s very busy. I counted 53 chickens sizzling away.

I would have purchased one but I was a little short of cash. I’d already spent over $15 at the church, purchasing 40 plastic bracelets for the youth fundraiser. I certainly didn’t need 40 plastic beaded bracelets so I ended up passing out to all the ladies and young people, anyone who wanted one. Certainly made my day, and theirs, but it left me with little to spend for a chicken.

I made motions of an empty pocketbook but next week, I’ll be sure to bring enough for a purchase or two. That will make for a tasty Sunday dinner.

Yum! Can’t wait.

From Laos, here’s hoping the beginning of your week is a good one.