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.

Celebration Time!!!

Posted on June 21, 2024 by connieinasia

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

Posted on June 8, 2024 by connieinasia

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

Posted on May 23, 2024 by connieinasia

“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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My New Apartment!

Posted on May 11, 2024 by connieinasia

It’s going on Week 3 since my move into my new apartment. I’ve been searching for a more permanent place since January. I needed a new residence, one that would hold all my Covid-abandoned “stuff” that is still in China. … Continue reading →

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It’s 108 Degrees Fahrenheit!!

Posted on May 2, 2024 by connieinasia

It’s been a wicked last 10 days, with temperatures soaring above 100 for what I was told has been an unusual stretch for Laos.  In fact, this week the MOES (Ministry of Education and Sports) announced that schools without air-conditioning … Continue reading →

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Laos Critters: A New Experience

Posted on April 15, 2024 by connieinasia

“Why is there a black billiard ball in my bathroom?” I wondered, looking down at a rounded thing next to the broom and dustpan sitting nearby the toilet. I went in for a closer look when. . . poof!! That … Continue reading →

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A Hail Storm Surprise

Posted on April 6, 2024 by connieinasia

“Oh!! Oh!! Oh!!” Santi exclaimed, standing at the glass doorway leading onto the outside corridor. Staff member Santi, whose hours are from 11 – 7 p.m. at the Center, and I were in the office, waiting for those last 2 … Continue reading →

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The SLVC Facebook Page is Humming!

Posted on March 23, 2024 by connieinasia

My fantastic Laos staff has been busy. Our Facebook page has exploded in pictures and videos taken by Khamxay and Santi during the courses we 3 teachers hold: Afiju (Village chiefs, college students), Amos (college students, young adults) and myself … Continue reading →

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A Split in the Laos Team’s Location

Posted on March 8, 2024 by connieinasia

My role as director took a somewhat official turn not long ago.   I’ve been getting my feet on the ground for 3 months now, just figuring out all that needs taken care of.  There’s a lot!   Angie , former director, … Continue reading →

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From Laos, Suntisouk Center News: Word is Spreading!

Posted on March 2, 2024 by connieinasia

Yes, folks, word is spreading!  It’s been 2 weeks since my last post and I must say, news from here is uplifting and positive.   14 new students at various levels and ages have joined our different classes.  We have … Continue reading →

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