Author Archives: connieinasia

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About connieinasia

I have been in the Asia region for 27 years as an English language teacher. A majority of those have been in China with the Amity Foundation , a Chinese NGO that works in all areas of development for the Chinese people. Covid stranded me in America for over 3 years, with China closing its boarders to returning teachers. In 2023, I was accepted into a new teaching role not in China but in Laos. Join me in experiencing this incredible journey into a different culture, a different language, and a different life.

A surprise visit from our Village Chief

Khamxay and I were all alone in the office this Thursday afternoon when suddenly, through our glass door, we saw someone wandering around the Center’s courtyard. With the summer break currently underway, there are no classes and thus the place … Continue reading

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“We’re at the Chinese Embassy. Where are you?”

Well, folks, it’s been some morning.After numerous back-and-forths with the Guangzhou China Shipping Company agent for the last 3 days, my things from China finally arrived. They left Chengdu on July 11, arrived into Laos on July 21 (Sunday) and … Continue reading

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Buddhist Lental season tomorrow; Monday Holiday

“Connie,” Khamxay, a wide grin on his face, reported to me with his cell phone extended. “I have something to tell you. We have a holiday on Monday. Women’s Labor Union Day. No work.” He showed me the official announcement … Continue reading

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Some Fun Last-week Experiences

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 … Continue reading

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Updates for the last day of the Center’s term and last week’s housewarming pictures

This has been a busy week as classes wrap up for the term. I was preparing my last few PPTs (power points) for my junior high and primary school classes, finishing this Friday’s PPT for Grades 1 and 2 at … Continue reading

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A Friday of Mishaps

I certainly do enjoy my Fridays here in Laos but today has been somewhat challenging. First was my early 5:30 a.m. rise to get in my pool swim. This is my meditation time and think-through-the-day planning. It’s also a preparation … Continue reading

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Christmas in July is Coming!

“How wonderful for you!” my former Chinese student in China, Jason, messaged me. “You will soon have all your things, after waiting so long, almost 5 years. I think you will be very happy.” Very happy? Understatement of the year. … Continue reading

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Celebration Time!!!

What a joyful week the staff and I have had! We have a Caretaker! With the departure of Lalaine, who previously lived at the Center out of the kindness of her heart, I’ve been searching for someone to take her … Continue reading

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Laos Updates: Geckos, Licenses, Send-offs

Do geckos bite? Well, apparently they do. The tiny, itty-bitty ones that are present everywhere (in my home, in my office, in the classroom, climbing outer corridor walls) are darling little things, quite harmless and somewhat of a comfort. They … Continue reading

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From Laos: Being Vigilant on my Midnight Blue Honda Scoopy

“Connie, Santi has been in an accident.” No one, especially an administrator, likes that kind of text message early in the morning from her office manager. Even more disturbing was the picture that followed. Oh, my gosh! Santi, my primary … Continue reading

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