Part of our life overseas involves getting new visa photos every six months. We have to have them any time we apply for official documents: passports, visas, re-entry permits and the one rule is you are NOT allowed to smile. They always look rather morbid or like everyone is disgruntled and unhappy here. We all feel quite the opposite.
John's Great Uncle Allen gave him the money to buy an RC car. John has loved playing with it, but the dog is not fond of the car. Such a fun gift!
The middle and high school had spirit week. Kate dressed up as a skittle, Elsa, Ariana Grande, a Brazil sports fan, and very dressy for dress up day. Anna participated in dress up day by doing the opposite (Kids could either dress up or dress mismatched.).
Anna and I were able to go to Bangkok with the volleyball teams and soccer teams for a tournament at the International School of Bangkok. It was a hard weekend full of injuries, sickness, and recovery from the flu. The girls fought hard and came away with 7th out of 8th place. It is a tough tournament with top notch teams. I was so proud of the way the girls fought. They had never won a game at ISB before. When they won 7th place, they said it felt like they won the tournament.
The Middle School PE teacher asked if I would be willing to teach the unit on volleyball. I was able to teach the students the basics of volleyball.
The night before my 40th birthday, Phil surprised me with flowers and a Thai tea at my volleyball practice and then took me (and the kids) for a surprise dinner boat ride. It was a lovely time and there was a cool breeze the entire ride. In the morning, Phil took me to a friend's house where our community group ladies were waiting with a van driver. Phil had reserved the van, the group of friends, and a table at a local cafe, Bella Goose on the Pond. We had a lovely brunch and my friends surprised me with sweet and thoughtful gifts.
After I got home, the kids had put together a scavenger hunt where I had to follow all of the clues to find my surprise. It was a poster with 40 reasons why we love our mom. Phil and the kids then gave me birthday presents. In the afternoon, we went to Elephant Parade House and painted ceramic elephants. When we got back to the house, Phil had arranged (while we were gone) for a friend to come let piano movers in the house. He had planned for us to rent a piano for the next little while (so much cheaper than buying one). I was so surprised and so overwhelmed! I have really missed playing the piano.
The last surprise of the night was so special. Phil had planned a google meet with friends from all over the world. Phil did a great job of moving the meeting along. He had everyone say their name, where they live, and how they know me. Then five of the people spoke words of encouragment, blessings, and prayers over me. It was such a special time.
