new beginnings

Well, sort of new beginnings.

Being back in Siem Reap feels different this time. Knowing I will be here for much longer has me feeling a little homesick. Part of that is not being settled or busy with my schedule yet, so I’m trying to just enjoy the time moving more slowly.

Traveling for me has always meant having a camera and often a sketchbook with me, but not usually a journal. I’ve decided to take on the challenge of documenting my new chapter in Cambodia. Fortunately, many of you (friends and family) have asked for updates so this will be an easy way to share my experience, verbally and visually.

The heat, humidity, and bugs are the hardest factors to adapt to here, and almost impossible to escape. We are in the dry season, with temps reaching around 100 degrees every day, and Cambodia is having a huge dry spell right now which is causing power outages throughout the country. Much of the electricity here is produced through hydro-power dams, but without water there isn’t enough to produce enough electricity. My first blackout experience was two nights ago, when I went out to dinner at a non-air-conditioned restaurant (fans only). Once the power went out, eating steamed fish and rice in a dark 90-something degree room with no fans was not an easy task. Trying to use minimal water and electricity here is a challenge, as I selfishly want to shower at least twice a day and sleep in a cool room at night. I’m already looking forward to the transition into the rainy season and slightly cooler temps.

For now, I’m appreciating the early morning rise and fresh coconuts to stay hydrated. I missed all of the sounds here… the tropical birds chirping at night when it’s quiet, a rooster’s greeting in the morning, and the daily hustle and bustle of tuk tuk and motorbike engines, and I especially missed hearing Khmer (Cambodian), which I need to start learning more of very soon.

This afternoon I’ll meet with my adviser for PUC (Paññāsāstra University of Cambodia) to get my teaching schedule.

More to come…