Final notes from Cambodia

This morning we met with the nursing leaders of the hospital for a wrap up. I was hoping to get feedback on our talks but it was mostly a thank you fest. Don’t get me wrong, it is nice to be thanked but I work harder at home. The challenge for this mission was trying to teach within the cultural context as well as within the limits of their supplies and technology. I think we did pretty well and at this point I can’t think of what I would do differently. I had read that it would be good to bring some small gifts so we were able to give them thank you cards and a small gift when we went out tonight. Manila, the head of nursing education and Salay who works with her, took us to a Vietnamese restaurant for a farewell dinner. We had a nice time and we learned that Manila’s husband is an Obama nut. She expressed surprise that Barb and I like Obama since he is black so I guess it will take a long time for that stigma about the US to go away.
Traveling and living with someone you only know slightly can be a challenge. Barb and I were acquaintances although now that we have been inseparable for 2 weeks I guess we are friends. Last night she did not like her meal that much so we just traded. Things like that have been easy. We eat the same way, have kept the same sleeping hours and have done well sharing the bathroom in terms of showers. I guess we have both been conscious of being considerate. We are about the same age and have similar family structures. Thank God neither of us are major snorers!
There are things I will miss about Cambodia; deliciously ripe fruit served to me in the morning (the pineapple is cut beautifully so it has frills) the walk to the hospital (it is dusty but it is nice to be able to walk to work) The beautiful children that stare and giggle because I am pale and have round, blue eyes and silver hair. There is a little boy that jumps up and down saying “hello, hello, hello” when I see him. I have attached Mr. Hello’s picture. I think I will miss that green mango salad but maybe I can figure out how to make it. One of the more amusing sights is that many children and women wear pajamas all day. I think for them it is a cool outfit as opposed to something to sleep in. I like the fact that the parents cook the food for themselves and their children at the hospital and that they harvest directly from the garden. I like the simplicity of the life and the curiosity of the Cambodian nurses about us, our culture, our profession. I will miss many things but not enough to stay. I will be glad to get home. Which reminds me, Paul, please do not forget to bring my coat when you come to pick me up. I am facing a 50 degree or more temperature change! IT is Saturday am around 10:45 and already about 90 and humid. I look forward to arrivng home but the 24 hours worth of airplane travel will be tedius.